Avellon Williams
USA- The political world is abuzz with speculation as former President Donald Trump suggests he might withdraw from the highly anticipated ABC debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. The debate, scheduled for September 10, has become a focal point in the 2024 presidential race, especially after President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the campaign.
Trump’s hesitation has sparked questions about whether he fears debating Harris due to her impressive qualifications and historic role as the first Black and Asian American vice president.
Kamala Harris: A Trailblazer in American Politics
Kamala Harris has a distinguished background that includes a robust education and a career marked by significant achievements. Born in Oakland, California, Harris attended Howard University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and economics in 1986.
She then obtained her law degree from the University of California, Hastings, in 1989. Harris began her career as a deputy district attorney in Oakland from 1990 to 1998, where she gained a reputation for her tough stance on crime.
She later served as the District Attorney of San Francisco from 2004-2011 where she was recognised for her work in criminal justice reform and LGBTQ+ rights and then as the Attorney General of California from 2011 – 2017, becoming the first African American and first woman to hold the position. In 2017 – 2021, Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate, where she served on several key committees and became known for her incisive questioning during hearings.
Donald Trump: From Business Mogul to Political Powerhouse
Donald Trump, born in Queens, New York, in 1946, has a background that blends business acumen with political ambition. He attended the New York Military Academy where he excelled in both academics and sports, graduating in 1964. He attended Fordham University for two years from 1964 to 1966. He later transferred to the Wharton School of Finance and Commerce at the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in economics in 1968.
Trump’s career began in real estate in 1971, when he took over his father’s company and expanded it into a global brand ‘Trump Organization’ known for luxury real estate, hotels, casinos, and golf courses. He became a household name through his business ventures and media presence, including the reality TV show ‘The Apprentice’ from 2004-2015 which significantly boosted his public profile.
Trump’s political journey began in earnest with his 2016 presidential campaign, which led to his election as the 45th president of the United States from 2017-2021. His presidency was marked by significant tax reforms, deregulation, and a focus on an ‘America First’ policy. He was impeached twice but acquitted both times by the Senate.
The Debate Drama: To Debate or Not to Debate?
The potential debate between Trump and Harris has been clouded by disagreements over the rules, particularly regarding the use of microphones. Harris’s team advocates for live microphones throughout the debate, while Trump’s team prefers the previous format with muted mics to prevent interruptions.
Trump has criticized ABC, the host network, for alleged bias, further complicating the debate’s prospects. As the debate date approaches, the question remains: Is Trump truly apprehensive about facing Harris, or are his concerns more about the debate’s format and the host network? Regardless, the political world is watching closely, eager to see if this high-stakes face-off will indeed take place.
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