The highly anticipated first debate of the 2024 election cycle, featuring former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, is set to take place tonight. Moderated by ABC News, this debate is a pivotal moment for both candidates to sway undecided voters ahead of Election Day in November. This face-off marks the first in-person encounter between Harris and Trump during this campaign, offering a crucial platform to articulate their policies and visions for the future.
For those wondering, “Where Can I Watch The Debate Tonight?”, ABC News has made it accessible across multiple platforms. Whether you prefer traditional television or streaming online, here’s your comprehensive guide to tuning in.
How to Watch the Presidential Debate Live
ABC News is providing extensive coverage of tonight’s debate. You can watch the debate live on the following platforms:
- Television: Tune into your local ABC channel to watch the debate on traditional television. Check your local listings for the specific channel number.
- ABC News Live: For online streaming, ABC News Live is your primary destination. This free 24/7 streaming news channel will broadcast the debate live. You can access ABC News Live through various streaming services and devices, including:
- ABCNews.go.com: Watch directly on the ABC News website.
- ABC News app: Download the ABC News app on your smartphone or tablet and stream the debate on the go.
- Connected Devices: ABC News Live is available on popular connected TV devices such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV Plus, YouTube, and Tubi. Simply search for “ABC News Live” within these platforms.
- Disney+ and Hulu: Subscribers to Disney+ and Hulu will also be able to stream the ABC News debate live on these platforms.
Final preparations are made in the spin room prior to the ABC News Presidential Debate, Sept. 9, 2024, at the Convention Center in Philadelphia
Image alt text: Spin room at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia prepared for the ABC News Presidential Debate between Harris and Trump.
In addition to video streaming, SiriusXM radio subscribers can listen to live audio coverage of the debate on Channel 370. Furthermore, ABC News Digital and 538 will provide real-time updates, fact-checking, and in-depth analysis through a live blog on their websites, ensuring you don’t miss any key moments or takeaways.
Debate Time and Location
Mark your calendars: the ABC News presidential debate will be held tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 9:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The venue for this significant political event is the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. This historic location adds a layer of gravitas to the debate, emphasizing the constitutional importance of the presidential election.
Vice President Kamala Harris, Former President Donald Trump.
Image alt text: Composite image of Vice President Kamala Harris and Former President Donald Trump facing forward, ready for the presidential debate.
Who are the Moderators?
The debate will be moderated by prominent ABC News anchors:
- David Muir: Anchor and Managing Editor of “World News Tonight.”
- Linsey Davis: Anchor of ABC News Live “Prime.”
Leading up to the debate, ABC News will also offer a pre-debate special, “Race for the White House,” starting at 8:00 PM EDT. This special will be anchored by:
- Martha Raddatz: Chief Global Affairs Correspondent and “This Week” Co-Anchor.
- Jonathan Karl: Chief Washington Correspondent and “This Week” Co-Anchor.
- Mary Bruce: Chief White House Correspondent.
- Rachel Scott: Senior Congressional Correspondent.
This pre-debate coverage will provide viewers with essential context and analysis before the main event begins.
Former president Donald Trump and President Joe Biden participate in the first presidential debate of the 2024 elections at CNN's studios in Atlanta, GA, June 27, 2024.
Image alt text: Donald Trump and Joe Biden during a previous 2024 presidential debate, illustrating the debate format and podium setup.
Debate Rules and Format
The 90-minute debate will feature a structured format designed to ensure a fair and focused discussion. Key rules include:
- Duration: The debate will last for 90 minutes and include two commercial breaks.
- Moderators: Only the two designated moderators will ask questions.
- Podium Placement: Determined by a coin toss, with Trump choosing the order of closing statements and Harris selecting podium position. Trump will deliver the final closing statement.
- No Opening Statements: The debate will begin directly with questions, but each candidate will have a two-minute closing statement.
- Podiums: Candidates will stand at podiums throughout the debate.
- No Props or Notes: Candidates are prohibited from using props or pre-written notes on stage.
- Time Allocation: Candidates will have two minutes to answer questions, two minutes for rebuttals, and an additional minute for follow-ups or clarifications.
- Microphone Control: Microphones will be muted when a candidate is not speaking to ensure focused speaking time.
- No Candidate-to-Candidate Questions: Candidates will not be allowed to directly question each other.
- No Audience: The debate will be held without a live audience in the room.
This structured format aims to facilitate a substantive discussion on key issues facing voters.
Don’t miss this crucial event in the 2024 election cycle. Tune in tonight to watch the Harris-Trump debate and stay informed!
