On Wednesday morning, former President Donald Trump eagerly accepted President Joe Biden’s challenge to a debate, announcing it on his Truth Social account. The two are set to have their first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle on June 27, marking their third encounter after having debated twice during the 2020 campaign. Another debate is scheduled for September 10.
Despite Trump’s reputation for strong debating skills and the excitement from his supporters, some warn against underestimating Biden. The announcement comes during a period of tight polling, with recent surveys showing Trump leading in key swing states like Pennsylvania, Arizona, Michigan, Georgia, and Nevada, though Biden’s numbers are close within the margin of error.
A Pew Research poll from April indicates that 62 percent of Americans disapprove of Biden’s job performance. Meanwhile, Trump faces legal challenges, including a criminal hush money trial and four other criminal cases.
Katie Pavlich, a Fox News contributor and Townhall.com editor, emphasized the importance of not underestimating Biden in the debates. Similarly, Bill Mitchell, CEO of YourVoice Studios, advised caution, noting that Biden should not be underestimated in a debate setting. Historian Larry Schweikart also advised against underestimating Biden, recalling past mistakes in predicting Biden’s performance.
In response to the debate challenge, Trump criticized Biden’s debating abilities and his presidency on Truth Social. Laura Loomer, a host on Rumble, shared Trump’s post and expressed confidence in Trump’s victory in the debate.
Political strategist Joey Meugniot and podcast host Dinesh D’Souza also questioned Biden’s ability to perform well in the debate, with both making comments on social media about Biden’s speaking skills.
Biden, in his video challenging Trump, included a jab at the former president, referencing Trump’s free Wednesdays due to no court proceedings in his criminal case in New York City. Biden also indicated his intention to secure another term, reinforcing his commitment to the upcoming debates.