On September 10th, we are set to witness a debate between the leading candidates running for president. However, there are smaller candidates who did not meet the threshold to be on this stage of the ABC debate.
No, this will not be lucha libre, arm wrestling, or spear throwing—no racing, no jumping. But there might just be some «truth-stretching gymnastics» and the obscene juggling of unfounded rumors.
A debate is supposed to be a respectful, well-reasoned argument over opposing points of view, although tensions can run high and voices may be raised. In fact, the word «debate» evolved from the Old French debatre, meaning «to fight.» Most formal debates, especially during a political campaign, try to keep the battles to a minimum.
Each side will prepare their candidate on the issues they need to present, and on how best to attack and potentially dismantle the other side’s arguments. They will attempt to trip up their opponent with new twists on old issues and perhaps introduce new facts. Meanwhile, the moderators, while trying to control the debate, will likely design questions and follow-ups that might make them appear smarter than the two contestants.
Trump must be cautious, avoid going off-script, and resist making personal attacks or fabricating facts and stories. He also needs to address the public’s concerns about how a convicted candidate could run for president. His challenge will be finding a message that resonates with the 15% of undecided voters.
Though she has momentum, Kamala must run hard as the underdog and also aim to reach undecided voters. At the same time, she can corner Trump with his indictments and convictions, but she shouldn’t get too caught up in being a prosecutor. She needs to focus on connecting with voters and discussing a better future.
We don’t expect Trump to smile, but Kamala’s warm smile could open doors to many hearts.
Some 30 years ago, comedian and activist Dick Gregory was debating the death penalty on a national talk show hosted by Shelly Jessie Raphael. Our opposition became loud, emotional, and visibly angry. After listening to five minutes of this, I decided to go on the attack. I’ve been known to be a loud and fearless attack dog when needed.
As I was about to get up, I felt Dick’s firm right hand pressing my left thigh down. I turned toward him, and he whispered, «People will remember more how you present yourself than that you’re yelling and rebutting the other side. We want them to see that we are the calm and reasonable ones with issues worth hearing.»
So, as you watch the debates, pay close attention to the candidates’ physical demeanor. When Trump stalked behind Hillary during their debate, it unsettled her and drew the audience’s attention to him instead of her message. The moderators should have stopped the debate and put Trump back in his place.
At this point, it’s unclear whether Trump will actually show up for the debate. What is clear is that Trump has a deep-seated fear of Black women prosecutors. And if he doesn’t show, ABC should give Kamala an hour to present her case.
If it happens, this debate will be an important event you won’t want to miss.
In the meantime, DO SOMETHING.
