It’s officially election season and November is right around the corner. The presidential debate is a crucial step in gathering the necessary information needed to cast a knowledgeable vote at the polls on November 5th. Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris took the stage on September 10th at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The rules for a presidential debate are pretty simple: the microphone is only on when it is the candidate’s turn to speak, there is no studio audience present, and candidates aren’t allowed to talk to their staff during a break or bring any notes with them. Both candidates are provided with a pen, paper and a bottle of water. The debate began around 9pm ET and aired on ABC. David Muir, anchor and managing editor of “World News Tonight,” and Lindsey Davis, ABC news anchor, were the moderators of this historic moment. This also marks the first time Harris and Trump have ever met in person. Each candidate was given two minutes to answer each question with a two-minute rebuttal, and an additional minute for a follow-up, clarification, or response. Harris, who entered the race about 7 weeks ago, has limited time to appeal to the American people and establish her campaign. On the other hand, Trump is hoping to maintain his fan base of supporters after an unstable summer. The night began with Harris crossing the stage and offering her hand to Trump. Any key issue or topic is on the table for a debate, but a frequently discussed subject was opinions on abortion. Harris highlighted the difficult realities of women living in states with abortion bans and mothers who struggle to access IVF care. She supports the federal right to have an abortion and wants to prevent states from banning it. “The survivor of a crime of a violation of her body does not have the right to make the decision about what happens to her body next? That is immoral”, said Harris. She is also the first President or Vice President to officially visit an abortion clinic. In comparison, Donald Trump is in favor of many exceptions and does not want to sign a federal ban on abortion, but would rather restrictions be made by the individual states. Trump falsely stated Democrats support abortions in the third trimester and after birth. There is no state in the country, republican or democrat, that allows termination postpartum. Both moderators effectively rerouted discussions back to the questions asked and made sure to implement clarifying fact checks when needed. If you are of age to vote, it is important to be informed and understand your ability to make educated decisions. This will help to ensure that the candidate elected is capable of addressing major concerns and leading our country efficiently. Be on the lookout for the Vice Presidential debate on October 1st in New York City.
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