Biden Wins Debate Coin Toss, Gains Strategic Advantage in Podium Selection

President Biden’s campaign made a strategic decision ahead of Thursday’s debate by reserving the stage-right podium, leaving the opposing lectern for his Republican opponent, former President Trump.

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Simultaneously, Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced disappointment as he was informed of his disqualification from participating in the debate. This news prompted approximately 50 supporters of Kennedy to stage a protest outside CNN’s New York bureau on 10th Avenue, passionately advocating for his inclusion in the debate lineup.

Amid chants of “RFK, let him speak. CNN, don’t be weak,” demonstrators voiced their discontent, citing perceived double standards in CNN’s polling criteria compared to leniency towards major party nominees Biden and Trump. Kennedy fell short of qualifying in three out of the required four polls, a setback highlighted by his campaign as indicative of media bias.

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Fox News’ Peter Doocy reported on “Special Report” that Kennedy’s representatives criticized CNN’s application of rules, claiming a disparity in treatment between independent candidates and those affiliated with major political parties. Requests for comment from both the Biden and Trump campaigns regarding Kennedy’s exclusion remained unanswered at the time of reporting.

Political leaders from both sides underscored the significance of the upcoming debate, emphasizing its potential impact on voter perceptions and election outcomes. Former House Democratic Caucus Chair Joe Crowley, reflecting on the event, noted the public’s keen interest in Biden’s performance and expectations regarding Trump’s approach.

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On the Republican side, Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida predicted Trump would leverage the debate platform to critique Biden’s foreign policy, particularly concerning the Middle East. Waltz highlighted concerns about instability in the region during Biden’s tenure, positioning the debate as a pivotal moment to contrast their respective leadership styles.

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As anticipation builds, media outlets, including Fox News Digital, sought insights from the Biden and Trump campaigns on their debate strategies and expectations. However, immediate responses were not forthcoming, leaving the public to speculate on the candidates’ preparations and potential tactics.

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With the spotlight on Atlanta and the upcoming face-off between Biden and Trump, all eyes remain on how each contender will leverage this critical opportunity to sway undecided voters and solidify support ahead of the next election cycle. The debate promises to be a crucial juncture in the unfolding narrative of the 2024 presidential race, shaping public discourse and policy discussions in the coming weeks.

Sola Adeniji

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