What Republicans Are Worried Trump Might Do in Debate with Joe Biden

President Donald Trump’s Republican allies in Congress are eager for him to adopt a more diplomatic approach in his upcoming 2024 debate against President Joe Biden. The former president, known for his tendency to go off on tangents and diverge from his prepared scripts during campaign events, is being advised to concentrate on policy issues. His supporters want him to highlight his plans for another term in the White House while contrasting them with Biden’s presidency and economic policies. Additionally, they are urging Trump to refrain from revisiting claims of election fraud, a topic he frequently raises with his supporters.

Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota emphasized the importance of forward-looking policies, urging Trump to focus on practical solutions that address the cost of living, such as grocery prices, fuel costs, and energy expenses. Similarly, Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana suggested that Trump should concentrate on cleaning up the alleged mess created by President Biden’s administration.

Despite these recommendations, Trump has been preoccupied with other matters leading up to the debate. Over the weekend, he made unsubstantiated claims that Biden relies on medical enhancements to prepare for their debate. Trump even challenged Biden to a drug test on Monday, offering to take one himself if Biden agreed.

Throughout the campaign, Trump and his allies have criticized Biden’s age and fitness for office. Public opinion polls have indicated concerns about both Biden’s age and Trump’s criminal record. It is likely that these issues will be raised during the upcoming debate.

When asked about the potential focus on Biden’s age during the debate, Senator Rick Scott of Florida, a close ally of Trump, suggested that it may not be necessary as public opinion has already indicated doubts about Biden’s capabilities. Scott emphasized the importance of Trump highlighting his accomplishments and focusing on a positive vision for the future.

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina advised Trump to draw sharp distinctions between his policies and Biden’s on critical issues like the economy and foreign affairs. He stressed the need to articulate a clear plan for returning the country to the right track if it is perceived to be on the wrong one.

The upcoming debate will not allow for constant interruptions like the previous one in 2020. Microphones will be muted when candidates are not speaking, ensuring a more orderly exchange of ideas. Biden has been diligently preparing for the debate with his team at Camp David, engaging in mock sessions and practicing strategies to address potential weaknesses when faced with attacks from Trump, specifically on topics like immigration and abortion access.

Republicans’ strategy of portraying Biden as inept and frail backfired earlier in the year when Biden delivered a robust and well-received State of the Union address. Democrats believe that Trump may fall into a similar trap during the upcoming debate, especially if expectations are raised too high for him.

Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia warned Republicans against underestimating Biden, as they did before the State of the Union address. He suggested that lowering expectations for Trump’s performance might be a more strategic approach. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut supported Biden’s decision not to shy away from discussions about his age, arguing that his experience brings wisdom and a unique perspective to the table.

Unlike Biden, Trump has opted not to engage in mock debate sessions, preferring instead to hold policy discussions with his allies and experts, including members of Congress. Last week, he attempted to elevate expectations for Biden’s performance by referring to him as a formidable debater.

With the debate drawing near, all eyes will be on how Trump and Biden will handle the exchange of ideas and critiques. Will Trump stick to his allies’ advice and focus on policies and future plans, or will he veer off course as he has done in the past? Only time will tell as the debate unfolds on Thursday.