Sep 4, 2024 - Politics & Policy

Harris and Trump settle on ABC News' Sept. 10 debate rules

Sareen Habeshian

Photos: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images and Rebecca Noble/Getty Images

ABC News officially announced on Wednesday the rules for next week's presidential debate after Vice President Harris' campaign agreed to the terms.

Why it matters: The Harris campaign said last week it was still in discussions with the network over whether microphones should be hot or muted — a sticking point the Harris and Trump campaigns had been at odds over.

The microphone will only be on for the candidate whose turn it is to speak — a blow for Harris, whose campaign had sought to have both candidates' mics be live throughout the broadcast.

Zoom in: The candidates' Sept. 10 showdown in Philadelphia will have no live audience and will be moderated by "World News Tonight" anchor and managing editor David Muir and ABC News Live "Prime" anchor Linsey Davis.

The first in-person debate between former President Trump and Harris will include 90 minutes of debate time with two commercial breaks.
The candidates are not allowed to bring pre-written notes to the stage.

Go deeper: Trump says agreement reached on Sept. 10 debate terms

Add Axios on Google

Harris and Trump settle on ABC News' Sept. 10 debate rules

What to read next