Harris Agrees to Debate Rules with Trump, Including Muted Mics, Source Reports

By Nandita Bose and Kanishka Singh

PORTSMOUTH, New Hampshire – Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris’s campaign has agreed to the rules for next week’s debate with Republican Donald Trump. This includes muting the microphones of candidates when it is not their turn to speak, according to a source familiar with the situation.

This upcoming debate will mark the first face-off between Trump and Harris, who became the Democratic nominee after President Joe Biden stepped aside on July 21 following a disappointing debate performance against Trump in late June.

The source, who wished to remain anonymous, mentioned that Harris’s campaign is still hoping for instances where the host, ABC News, may need to unmute the microphones, allowing the candidates to respond during the debate.

Harris’s ascent to the forefront of the Democratic ticket has revitalized a party campaign that had raised questions about Biden’s viability. Polling data indicated that Trump had taken the lead over Biden, but Harris has managed to surpass Trump in some national opinion polls since then.

Over the weekend, Harris urged Trump to participate in a debate with their microphones live throughout the event. "Hot mics" can both benefit and hinder political figures, as they may capture unintended remarks. Muted microphones help minimize interruptions during the debate.

Jason Miller, a senior adviser to Trump, expressed enthusiasm about Harris’s acceptance of the debate rules. He stated, "Americans want to hear both candidates present their competing visions to the voters, unburdened by what has been. No notes, no sitting down, no advance copies of the questions."

In addition, Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz and Republican counterpart JD Vance have also confirmed their participation in a debate scheduled for October 1.