Which version of Donald Trump will attend the CNN debate on Thursday night?
As the first of two on-stage confrontations between President Biden and former President Trump in the 2024 election rematch looms, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is: Which Trump will show up at the primetime debate in Atlanta, the battleground of Georgia?
Will it be the undisciplined candidate who relentlessly interrupted Biden and debate moderator Chris Wallace during their first debate in the 2020 election? Trump failed to condemn White supremacists, lost his cool, and received widespread criticism from political pundits and viewers.
However, Trump’s reworked strategy led to a more measured and disciplined performance in the second 2020 debate, though it was too little, too late, as Biden emerged victorious in the election.
Insights from a seasoned debate coach, Lawrence O’Donnell, shed light on Trump’s likely approach for the upcoming debate. O’Donnell’s advice to Trump is to emulate his performance in the second 2020 debate with Biden by being passionate yet not offensive.
O’Donnell’s experience in coaching presidential candidates, including George W. Bush, John McCain, Mitt Romney, and most recently, Ron DeSantis, gives weight to his recommendations for Trump.
With a focus on addressing critical issues like rising gas prices, inflation, and housing affordability, Trump must maintain discipline and engage voters effectively.
Similarly, Biden must be cautious not to make the debate about personal attacks or highlighting Trump’s legal troubles, as this could play into Trump’s strengths and detract from the key issues that voters care about.
Both candidates are advised to avoid focusing on each other’s age and instead let their debating skills and policy positions speak for themselves.
As the debate approaches, expectations are high for both candidates. Trump’s campaign has attempted to portray Biden as a capable debater, emphasizing his long history in politics.
O’Donnell’s advice for Biden is to avoid falling into the incumbent trap and frame the race as a choice between his record over the past four years and Trump’s platform.
Ultimately, the debate is an opportunity for both candidates to clarify their visions for the country and convince voters why they are the best choice for the presidency.
