The stage is set for the first U.S. presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on June 27, and CNN has released the rules that will govern the highly anticipated event. 

The 90-minute debate, to be held in Atlanta and moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, will feature two commercial breaks, muted microphones, and a strict no-props policy.

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• CNN releases debate rules: muted mics, no props, and strict moderation.

• Candidates must meet polling and ballot requirements to participate.

• Biden and Trump’s teams identify key issues for the first debate.

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CNN Reveals First US Presidential Debate Rules: Muted Mics & More

According to CNN, the candidates will stand at uniform podiums, and their positions will be determined by coin flip. 

They will each be provided with a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water, but using any additional props is strictly prohibited. 

Microphones will be muted throughout the debate to ensure a fair and orderly discussion, except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.

The moderators, Tapper and Bash, will have various tools to enforce timing and maintain a civilized discourse. 

Campaign staff will not be allowed to interact with their respective candidates during the two commercial breaks, and no studio audience will be present.

To qualify for the debate, candidates must appear on sufficient state ballots to reach the 270 electoral votes needed to win the presidency. 

They must also receive at least 15% support in four national polls. 

CNN has noted that independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could potentially qualify.

He has already received at least 15% in three qualifying polls and secured a spot on the ballot in six states, making him eligible for 89 electoral college votes.

With the race between Biden and Trump expected to be close, the debates, which typically draw a live television audience in the tens of millions, carry significant risks for both candidates. 

According to a campaign memo viewed by Reuters, Biden’s team has identified abortion rights, the state of democracy, and the economy as his preferred debate topics. 

Meanwhile, Trump’s team has pointed to immigration, public safety, and inflation as key issues they hope to address.

The second and final presidential debate is scheduled for September 10 and will be hosted by ABC.

As the nation prepares for this crucial event, voters can expect a spirited and informative exchange between the two candidates, shedding light on their positions and plans for the future of the United States.

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