Staff Reports
Lawmakers are expressing mixed feelings about the upcoming presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden. After initially refusing to debate Trump, Biden has finally agreed to share the stage, under certain conditions. The debate is set to take place on CNN and ABC in June and September.
Republicans and Democrats alike are unsure about the prospect of the two potential 2024 candidates squaring off in a debate. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina expressed concerns about Trump’s ability to control himself if Biden’s age or mental state were to become apparent during the debate. He also questioned whether Biden would be able to effectively respond to questions. However, Graham did offer Trump advice, advising him to focus on his accomplishments and plans for the country rather than criticizing Biden.
Here’s What Republicans, Democrats Think of the Trump, Biden Debate https://t.co/3okSfVfaC4
— David Jones (@davidjones720) May 20, 2024
Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin echoed a similar sentiment, encouraging Trump to allow Biden to speak without interruption but to challenge him when it was his turn to speak. Meanwhile, Trump himself predicted that Biden would be “jacked up” during the debate and suggested that Biden should be drug tested.
On the Democratic side, Senator John Hickenlooper of Colorado seemed nonplussed about the debate, suggesting it would be pure entertainment. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas also viewed the debate as an opportunity for Trump to focus on important issues such as illegal immigration and the economy.
On the other hand, Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota were less enthusiastic about the potential impact of the debate. Both expressed doubts that the debate would change voters’ minds, with Rounds suggesting that Biden may not perform well in an evening debate.
In general, there are conflicting opinions among lawmakers about the upcoming debate, with some expressing reservations and others seeing it as an opportunity for the candidates to showcase their policies and accomplishments.
