Democratic presidential nominee, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris gestures as she speaks during a presidential debate with Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump, hosted by ABC in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., September 10, 2024 REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo
Harris Calls for Additional Debate as Election Nears; Trump Declines Citing Early Voting
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has called for a second debate with former President Donald Trump as the November 5 presidential election approaches. Harris urged Trump to accept a proposal for an October 23 debate on CNN, which would follow their previous debate held on September 10 on ABC. Speaking at a fundraiser in New York City on Sunday, Harris emphasized the importance of engaging with voters in the final weeks of the campaign.
“He should accept because I feel very strongly that we owe it to the American people and to the voters to meet once more before Election Day,” Harris told supporters. She added, “We should have another debate. My opponent is looking for a reason to avoid.”
Trump’s Response
Trump, however, has declined the offer, citing the start of early voting in several states as a key reason. During a rally in North Carolina on Saturday, Trump addressed the issue, stating, “The problem with another debate is that it’s just too late. Voting has already started.” Early voting began in some U.S. states ahead of the November election, and Trump’s campaign has indicated that another debate at this stage would not be beneficial.
Harris Pushes Back
In response, Harris acknowledged that early voting is underway but argued that there is still enough time for a debate to impact the race. “This race is as close as it could be. This is a margin of error race,” Harris said on Sunday, underscoring the tight nature of the contest with over a month remaining before Election Day.
As both candidates continue their respective campaigns, the debate over whether to hold a second presidential debate reflects broader strategic differences, with Harris pushing for more direct voter engagement while Trump focuses on mobilizing early voters.
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