MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) — All eyes will be on the debate stage as President Joe Biden and Donald Trump prepare to discuss their approaches to nationwide issues.
The former and current president will debate Thursday night in Atlanta. There will not be an audience, and both candidates agreed to muted mics so they can only speak when it is their turn.
“We really are seeing both sides really starting their general election campaigns tomorrow night,” said John Wahl, chairman of the Alabama Republican Party. “This is going to be a critical moment for the Trump campaign, but I think especially for the Biden campaign.”
“From my experience as an elected official — I’m a former city council person — debates don’t change too many minds,” Randy Kelley, chairman of the Democratic Party, said. “Even if they lose, the folks that’s for you gonna still be for you.”
Leaders from both parties in Alabama feel confident about their candidate’s preparations.
“Donald Trump is going to be bringing up those issues,” said Wahl. “He’s going to be talking about these items, and he’s really going to be holding Joe Biden accountable for his last four years.”
“I do think that Biden has a chance to tell his story,” Kelley said. “I think he has not done a good job telling the public what he has done.”
When it comes to bringing up those issues, both leaders differ on what matters most to voters and their candidates.
“Number one is the economy,” said Wahl. “People are struggling to put food on the table. They need relief, they need to have a president that can help make the economy better, bring down the cost of living, and make things more affordable.”
“Well, I think the main thing is protecting healthcare. He’s talked about raising a livable wage, the man is pro-union. Many people have been brought in the middle class just based on unions,” said Kelley.
According to CNN, candidates will only be given a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water. There will be no prewritten notes.
