The anticipation is high as millions of viewers prepare to tune in to the first presidential debate of the 2024 election on June 27. This highly anticipated event marks a rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, hosted by CNN. Here’s everything you need to know about watching this pivotal debate.
Overview of the Presidential Debate
The first presidential debate of the 2024 election will take place on Thursday at 9 p.m. ET. It will be broadcast live on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español, and CNN Max. For those without a cable login, the debate can be streamed directly from CNN.com. The debate is scheduled to last for 90 minutes.
Special Features and Coverage
CNN has announced that it will provide a feed of its production to other networks and digital platforms. However, competitors must adhere to specific conditions, including displaying CNN’s on-screen logo and refraining from adding their own anchors or commentators during breaks or other segments of the broadcast.
Historical Significance and Audience
Presidential debates are historically among the most-watched broadcasts in the United States. For instance, the first debate between Trump and Biden in September 2020 drew in over 73 million viewers, underscoring the significance of these events in shaping public opinion and political discourse.
New Rules and Format Changes
To avoid the chaotic scenes of previous debates, several new rules have been agreed upon by both candidates. Microphones will be muted to prevent interruptions, and the candidates will face each other on stage without a live audience—a departure from previous formats. This adjustment aims to foster a more controlled and substantive exchange of ideas.
Introduction of Commercial Breaks
In a departure from tradition, the 2024 debate will feature commercial breaks. This move, approved despite past rules against advertisements by the non-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates, marks a significant shift in how these events are structured. Critics argue that while it may prevent theatrics, it also commercializes a traditionally non-commercialized platform.
Expert Perspectives
Patrick Stewart, a political science professor at the University of Arkansas, highlights both the positives and negatives of these changes: “The good will be that the candidates can’t game the system and turn it into a pro wrestling match. The bad part is we’ve commercialized the debates as opposed to serving the public good.”
Conclusion
As the first presidential debate of the 2024 election approaches, all eyes are on the candidates and how they will navigate these new dynamics. Whether you plan to watch on television or stream online, this debate promises to be a pivotal moment in the election cycle, shaping public perceptions and setting the tone for future debates to come.
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FAQs
- How can I watch the presidential debate online?
- You can watch the debate live on major news websites and streaming platforms like CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español, and CNN Max.
- What are the key issues likely to be discussed in the debate?
- Expect discussions on economic policy, healthcare, national security, climate change, and social justice issues.
- Who are the moderators of the first presidential debate?
- The moderators will be announced closer to the debate date.
- How do presidential debates influence election outcomes?
- Debates provide voters with insights into candidates’ policies and personalities, influencing undecided voters and shaping public opinion.
- Where can I find more information about the upcoming debates?
- Stay tuned to major news networks and the official websites of the candidates for updates on debate schedules and topics.