In a joint statement issued by twelve news organizations, a call was made to presumptive presidential nominees Joe Biden and Donald Trump to commit to participating in debates for the upcoming election. The organizations emphasized the importance of debates as a tradition that has been a part of every general election campaign since 1976.
While Trump has expressed a willingness to debate his opponent, Biden has not made a firm commitment. The news organizations, including major networks like ABC, CBS, CNN, and Fox, stressed the significance of candidates debating their visions for the nation before the American people, especially given the high stakes of the election.
The Commission on Presidential Debates has set dates for three presidential debates and one vice presidential forum. The Trump campaign has indicated a willingness to debate anytime, anywhere, and any place, but has raised concerns about the fairness and impartiality of the debates organized by the commission.
The Biden campaign has not responded to the news organizations' call for debates, citing the president's earlier statement that his participation would depend on Trump's behavior. Trump, on the other hand, has actively called for debates and even staged a rally with a second lectern to symbolize Biden's refusal to debate.
The broadcasters are also keen on hosting debates as television news ratings have declined compared to the 2020 campaign. The absence of Democratic debates in this presidential cycle and Trump's refusal to participate in GOP forums have contributed to the lack of interest in debates.
As the election approaches, the call for debates continues, with news organizations and candidates navigating the complexities and challenges of organizing these crucial events. The future of the nation hangs in the balance, and the American people await the opportunity to hear from the candidates directly through these debates.