The upcoming presidential debate on Thursday night is being closely watched by lawmakers from both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill. One of the biggest questions looming over the debate is how both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will address concerns over their age and mental acuity.
Democrats are hoping that President Biden’s performance will dispel the narrative pushed by Republicans that the 81-year-old president is unfit to hold office. They also want Biden to highlight Trump’s legal troubles and prove that he is the one who is unfit to serve. On the other hand, Republicans are setting high expectations for Biden, while trying to lower expectations for Trump.
Both sides acknowledge that the debate is unlikely to make or break either candidate, but they see it as a unique opportunity for both men to outline their accomplishments during their respective presidencies. House GOP campaign chair Rep. Richard Hudson wants Trump to focus on his record and not attack Biden’s age.
Trump has been spreading baseless allegations about Biden’s mental fitness, suggesting that he may be using drugs to enhance his performance. Some House Republicans, including Trump’s former White House physician Rep. Ronny Jackson, have called on Biden to take a drug test before the debate. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson tried to downplay Trump’s rhetoric.
In response to the attacks on Biden’s preparedness, Democrats see it as an attempt by Republicans to lower expectations and get ahead of the president. They believe that Biden’s strong performance could undermine the GOP narrative that he is unfit to serve. On the other hand, Republicans believe that Trump’s history of antagonizing media outlets like CNN sets him up to declare victory regardless of the debate’s outcome.
Lawmakers are working hard to shape the narrative surrounding the debate in favor of their respective candidates. Democrats want Biden to present a clear message and focus on his accomplishments, especially in terms of the economy. Republicans hope that Trump will maintain a calm demeanor and focus on policy issues rather than past grievances.
Overall, both sides are preparing for a potentially high-stakes rematch between Biden and Trump, with each hoping to come out on top. The American people will be watching closely to see how the two candidates perform on the debate stage.
