In a recent video, President Joe Biden has issued a challenge to former President Donald Trump, inviting him to participate in a series of debates.
The video, which was released on Wednesday and features several edits and cuts, was not filmed in a single take. The President proposed that the debates be hosted by networks known for their favorable coverage of his administration, including CNN, ABC News, Telemundo, and CBS News.
In the video, Biden stated, "Donald Trump lost two debates to me in 2020," before the first cut. He then added, "And since then, he hasn't shown up for a debate." He continued, "Now he's acting like he wants to debate me again," before the third cut. "Well make my day, pal I'll even debate you twice. So let's pick the dates, Donald. I hear you're free on Wednesdays."
Michael Tyler, the campaign communications director, confirmed that the President was forthright in his challenge and that they are awaiting a response from Trump. Speaking to "Morning Joe" on Wednesday, Tyler said, "I mean listen, the president himself did not mince words, right? He said that he beat Donald Trump twice in 2020. Donald Trump hasnt debated since, the president is happy to debate. Hes happy to do it twice."
Tyler further suggested that the debates should be held sooner rather than later, proposing one in June after Trump's criminal trial is likely to conclude and another in September, well before early voting begins. He said this would allow the American public to make an informed decision in the upcoming election.
However, the prospect of a Biden-Trump debate has been met with skepticism from some quarters. Prominent Democrats, including Illinois Senator Dick Durbin and Delaware Senator Chris Coons, have expressed reservations about the idea, citing Trump's alleged propensity for outrageous behavior and his refusal to debate his Republican primary challengers.
Meanwhile, public opinion polls reveal significant concern about President Biden's fitness to serve a second term. A recent Pew Research poll found that 65% of respondents have "little to no confidence" that the 81-year-old President has the physical or mental fitness to be president. In contrast, 36% believe that Trump possesses these capacities.
The ball is now in Trump's court, with the Biden campaign eagerly awaiting his response. As Tyler put it, "I think the question now becomes, will Donald Trump keep his word? Will he step up to the plate here? We havent heard from him yet, but well be waiting all day."
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