Trump and Harris clash over debate rules amid campaign tensions

Tensions are rising between the Trump and Harris campaigns as they prepare for a debate scheduled for September 10 in Philadelphia. After Trump hinted he might skip the debate, his spokesman, Jason Miller, accused the Harris campaign of attempting to alter the previously agreed-upon debate rules. Miller claimed that the Harris camp requested changes such as a seated debate with notes and opening statements, which they rejected, asserting that no modifications would be made to the established rules. Miller further criticized the Harris campaign for avoiding interviews and press conferences, suggesting they were looking for ways to evade a debate with Trump. He expressed skepticism about Harris's ability to engage with Trump without assistance, implying that the campaign's requests were indicative of a lack of confidence in her debating skills. In response, Brian Fallon, a senior advisor for the Harris campaign, argued that both candidates should have their microphones live throughout the debate. He suggested that Trump's team was not being transparent with him about the debate rules, fearing it would be embarrassing to admit they believed he needed a mute button to handle the debate effectively. The ongoing dispute over the debate format highlights the broader campaign tensions and strategies at play as both candidates prepare for a critical moment in the election cycle. The outcome of this debate could significantly impact public perception and voter sentiment leading up to the election.