CNN’s presidential debate is quickly approaching as the eligibility window for the first in-person showdown of the 2024 cycle comes to an end. Candidates have until 12:00:01 a.m. ET on Thursday to meet the qualifications for participation in the debate. So far, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have qualified for the debate.
Hosted by Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, the 90-minute debate is set for June 27 in Atlanta. Both the Trump and Biden campaigns have accepted the network’s invitation and agreed to the rules and format of the debate.
In order to qualify for participation, candidates must satisfy the requirements outlined in Article II, Section 1 of the US Constitution and file a formal statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. Biden and Trump meet those requirements, as well as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, and Jill Stein.
According to CNN’s parameters set in May, participating debaters must appear on a sufficient number of state ballots to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold and receive at least 15% in four separate national polls of registered or likely voters that meet CNN’s standards for reporting.
During the debate, Biden and Trump have agreed to appear at a uniform podium, with positions determined by a coin flip. Microphones will be muted throughout the debate except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak. No props or pre-written notes will be allowed on the stage, but candidates will be provided with a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water. Campaign staff will not be permitted to interact with their candidate during the debate’s two commercial breaks.
