Biden-Trump debate should help candidates focus on serious issues, Democratic senator says

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Sen. Chris Van Hollen argued on Sunday that the one-on-one presidential debate format, devoid of a live audience, would serve the American viewing audience better, especially considering the “agent of chaos” nature of the presumptive Republican nominee, Donald Trump.

“I believe this format is advantageous for the American people,” stated Van Hollen, a Maryland Democrat, during an appearance on ABC’s ‘This Week’. “They want the candidates to concentrate on issues, such as the economy and foreign policy. Donald Trump thrives in a circus-like environment. He leans more towards entertainment than engaging in serious debate on significant matters.”

In the previous election cycle, the debate between then-President Trump and Joe Biden was marked by incessant interruptions, disorder, and a general lack of decorum. At one juncture, Biden exclaimed, “Will you shut up, man?” in response to Trump’s interruptions.

Biden’s campaign advocated for stringent guidelines for the two one-on-one debates agreed upon by the two major party presidential candidates. These guidelines included the absence of a live audience during the June 27 showdown on CNN and the provision to mute microphones if a candidate exceeds their allotted time. The second debate between Trump and Biden is slated for September 10 on ABC. Additionally, the Biden campaign has accepted a vice presidential debate hosted by CBS, scheduled for either July or August.

Marc Lotter, a former 2020 Trump campaign aide, expressed concerns about the debate format for Biden during his appearance on ABC on Sunday. Lotter remarked that facing Trump live in a one-on-one setting would pose “a challenge” for Biden.

“Donald Trump frequently takes the stage two or three times a week and speaks for 90 minutes,” Lotter pointed out. “Joe Biden rarely participates in rigorous interviews.”

Subsequently, Trump has advocated for additional presidential debates with Biden, as well as a face-off between his yet-to-be-announced running mate and Vice President Kamala Harris. Currently, only the two presidential debates are officially scheduled.