The first highly anticipated presidential debate of the 2024 election, featuring Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, is set to take place tonight and will be moderated by ABC News. With the election just weeks away, this debate offers a pivotal moment for both candidates to sway undecided voters in what is projected to be a closely contested race this November. This face-off marks the first in-person encounter between Harris and Trump, providing a crucial platform for them to articulate their stances on key policy issues.
This debate gains additional significance as Harris stepped into the Democratic candidate role following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race after his less-than-stellar debate performance in June. For viewers eager to witness this important political event, here’s a comprehensive guide on Where To Watch The Presidential Debate live.
Preparations in the spin room for the ABC News Presidential Debate in Philadelphia.
Livestream Options: How to Watch the Debate Online
ABC News is providing multiple platforms to ensure widespread access to the presidential debate. You can easily livestream the debate through the following services:
- ABC: The debate will be broadcast on the ABC television network. Check your local listings for channel information.
- ABC News Live: Stream the debate online for free via ABC News Live. This is accessible through the ABC News website and various streaming platforms.
- Disney+: Subscribers to Disney+ will be able to stream the presidential debate live on the platform.
- Hulu: Hulu subscribers can also catch the live debate through their Hulu accounts.
- ABC News App: Watch directly on your smartphone or tablet by downloading the ABC News app.
- ABC.com: Access the livestream on your computer or connected devices by visiting ABC.com.
- Streaming Platforms: ABC News Live is broadly available on streaming services such as Samsung TV+, The Roku Channel, Amazon Fire TV, YouTube, and Tubi.
For those who prefer audio, SiriusXM will broadcast the debate on Channel 370.
Furthermore, for real-time updates and in-depth analysis throughout the night, ABC News Digital and 538 will host a live blog, offering fact-checks, key takeaways, and comprehensive coverage directly from the debate stage.
Split image of Vice President Kamala Harris and Former President Donald Trump for presidential debate coverage.
Debate Location and Time: Tune in on September 10th
Mark your calendars: the presidential debate is scheduled for Tuesday, September 10th, at 9:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The event will be held in Philadelphia at the National Constitution Center. This historic location provides a fitting backdrop for this crucial political discussion.
Image of the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the venue for the Harris-Trump presidential debate.
Meet the Moderators: David Muir and Linsey Davis
ABC News has selected experienced journalists to moderate this significant debate. David Muir, anchor and managing editor of “World News Tonight,” and Linsey Davis, anchor of ABC News Live “Prime,” will guide the discussion. Their roles as moderators are crucial to ensuring a balanced and informative exchange between the candidates.
To prepare viewers for the main event, ABC will also broadcast a pre-debate special titled “Race for the White House” at 8:00 PM EDT. This special will feature insights and analysis from prominent ABC News correspondents including Martha Raddatz, Jonathan Karl, Mary Bruce, and Rachel Scott. It will also be available across ABC’s streaming platforms.
Debate Ground Rules: What to Expect
The campaigns of both Vice President Harris and former President Trump have agreed to a set of ground rules to maintain order and fairness during the 90-minute debate, which will include two commercial breaks. Key rules include:
- Microphone Control: To ensure focused speaking turns, candidate microphones will be muted when it is not their designated speaking time.
- Moderator Questions: All questions will be posed exclusively by the two seated moderators. Candidates will not question each other directly.
- Podium Placement & Statements: Trump won a coin toss and chose to deliver the closing statement last. Harris selected the right podium position, which will be stage left for viewers. There will be no opening statements, but closing statements will be two minutes each.
- On-Stage Restrictions: Candidates will stand at podiums and are not allowed to bring props or pre-written notes onto the stage. They will be provided with a pen, paper, and water.
- Time Allocation: Candidates will have two minutes to answer questions, two minutes for rebuttals, and an additional minute for follow-ups or clarifications.
- No Audience: To maintain focus and minimize distractions, there will be no live audience present in the debate room.
- Civil Discourse: Moderators are tasked with enforcing time limits and promoting a respectful and civilized discussion throughout the debate.
Make sure to tune in to ABC News and its digital platforms on September 10th to watch this pivotal presidential debate and stay informed as the election approaches.
