How to watch the first Biden-Trump Presidential Debate of 2024

In a highly anticipated event, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are set to face off in the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle. This debate marks a significant moment in the campaign, as both candidates aim to sway undecided voters and solidify their bases ahead of the November election.

When and Where

The debate is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at 9 p.m. EDT. It will take place at CNN's studios in Atlanta, Georgia, and will last for 90 minutes with two commercial breaks. This early debate is a departure from the traditional timeline, occurring months before the Republican and Democratic conventions in July and August.

How to Watch

Viewers have multiple options to watch the debate live. It will be broadcast on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español, and CNN Max. For those without a cable subscription, the debate will be available for streaming on CNN.com. Additionally, several other networks, including Fox News, ABC, NBC, and C-SPAN, will simulcast the event with CNN's watermark on the screen. Streaming platforms such as Hulu and YouTube will also carry the debate live, ensuring broad accessibility.

Moderators and Format

The debate will be moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. Tapper, known for his political journalism and hosting "The Lead with Jake Tapper," and Bash, an anchor for "Inside Politics," bring extensive experience to the role. The format of the debate includes several notable changes aimed at ensuring a more orderly and focused discussion.

- No Live Audience: To prevent any undue influence, there will be no studio audience.
- Muted Microphones: Candidates' microphones will be muted while the other is speaking to prevent interruptions.
- No Opening Statements: The debate will jump straight into questions without opening statements from the candidates.
- Limited Props: Candidates are restricted from using props or pre-written notes, though they will have access to paper, a pen, and water.

Debate Rules and Participation

Both Biden and Trump have agreed to a set of rules designed to maintain decorum. Each candidate will have two minutes to respond to questions, followed by one minute for rebuttals. Moderators will enforce these time limits strictly, using tools at their disposal to ensure a civilized discussion. The candidates will stand at lecterns determined by a coin flip, with Trump having the final word during closing statements.

To qualify for the debate, candidates had to meet constitutional eligibility requirements, file with the Federal Election Commission, appear on enough state ballots to potentially secure 270 electoral votes, and achieve at least 15% in four qualifying national polls. Only Biden and Trump met these criteria, excluding third-party candidates like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, and Jill Stein.

What to Expect

The debate comes at a crucial time as both candidates face significant challenges. Biden, at 81, has been preparing at Camp David, focusing on refining his campaign's key themes. Trump, 78, has been actively campaigning and engaging with his supporters, recently holding a rally in Philadelphia.

Key issues likely to be discussed include immigration, the economy, and foreign policy. Biden may address Trump's legal controversies, including his recent conviction on felony charges, while Trump is expected to criticize Biden's handling of immigration and the economy. Both candidates will need to navigate their vulnerabilities carefully, with Biden facing scrutiny over his age and Trump needing to appeal to swing voters and moderates.

Looking Ahead

This debate is the first of the 2024 campaign season, with a second debate scheduled for September 10, hosted by ABC News. The outcome of these debates will play a significant role in shaping the narrative leading up to the election, as both candidates seek to capitalize on their opponent's weaknesses while defending their own records and policy positions.

In summary, the first Biden-Trump presidential debate of 2024 promises to be a pivotal moment in the election cycle. With high stakes and a national audience, both candidates will aim to make a compelling case to voters. Be sure to tune in on June 27 at 9 p.m. EDT to witness this historic event.