Trump criticizes ABC News, questions participation in Sept. 10 debate

Former President Donald Trump raised doubts on Sunday about his potential participation in the first presidential debate against Vice President Kamala Harris. In a post on Truth Social, Trump questioned, “Why would I do the Debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” His remarks came alongside criticisms of ABC News, specifically targeting Jonathan Karl’s interview with Tom Cotton that aired on “This Week,” as well as the panel of commentators on the show.

The presidential debate is scheduled to take place on September 10, hosted by ABC News. This debate is significant because it is the only encounter that both nominees have tentatively agreed to before the Election Day in November. The agreement culminated after considerable negotiation, with Trump initially proposing a debate on September 4 hosted by Fox News, a proposal that the Harris campaign did not accept.

Trump expressed frustration not only with the network but also with Donna Brazile, the former chair of the Democratic National Committee. Brazile faced controversy in 2016 after disclosing town hall questions to Hillary Clinton’s campaign before a debate. Furthermore, Trump insinuated that Harris has close ties to ABC, specifically referencing Dana Walden, a Disney executive known to be a friend of the Vice President.

ABC News clarified that Walden’s role is limited to corporate and financial matters and that she does not influence the editorial decisions of the network.

As for potential future debates, Harris’ team has confirmed the agreement for a second debate, although the specifics regarding the date and location remain unannounced. Earlier this month, the Harris-Walz campaign stated, “the debate about debates is over,” asserting that Trump’s campaign accepted their proposal for three debates—two presidential and one vice presidential debate.

Provided that Trump shows up for the debate on September 10, Harris’ campaign indicated that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz would face Senator JD Vance on October 1, providing yet another opportunity for the public to see Trump and Harris on the debate stage together later in October.

Both Trump’s and Harris’ running mates, JD Vance from Ohio and Tim Walz from Minnesota respectively, have agreed to an additional debate hosted by CBS News on October 1. This discussion is expected to be closely watched, given the significant implications for the upcoming election and party dynamics.

ABC News, along with the campaigns of Harris and Trump, have been reached out to for comments regarding these developments and the overall debate arrangements.

As the date for the debate draws near, the political landscape continues to shift, with each candidate weighing their participation and strategies, keeping voters and analysts eagerly anticipating the outcomes.

Source: USA TODAY