CNN announced the rules for the June 27 presidential debate, which include a lack of a studio audience, muted microphones, and each candidate's attendance at a standard podium. The stage will not allow props or prewritten notes, and applicants will receive a pen, paper, and bottle of water. The moderators, Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, will enforce timing and ensure a civilized discussion.
The network expressed doubt about candidates other than Biden and Trump meeting the requirements for debate eligibility. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the independent presidential candidate, is unlikely to qualify for the debates. He has ballot access equal to 89 of the 270 electoral votes needed and three of the four necessary qualifying polls. The most significant requirement is that there must not be a studio audience, unlike presidential debates in general or party primary. Biden campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon suggested this detail to avoid boisterous gatherings for the audience's sake.
The network expressed doubt about candidates other than Biden and Trump meeting the requirements for debate eligibility. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the independent presidential candidate, is unlikely to qualify for the debates. He has ballot access equal to 89 of the 270 electoral votes needed and three of the four necessary qualifying polls. The most significant requirement is that there must not be a studio audience, unlike presidential debates in general or party primary. Biden campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon suggested this detail to avoid boisterous gatherings for the audience's sake.
