Trump Faces Increasing Calls to Debate Harris Again

Former President Donald Trump is under mounting pressure to engage in a second debate with Vice President Kamala Harris, following her acceptance of a CNN invitation for an October showdown. Republican strategists are urging Trump to seize the opportunity to showcase a more focused and disciplined performance after Harris was perceived as the winner in their previous encounter.

Many in the GOP believe that participating in another debate could be advantageous for Trump, especially in light of the current competitive landscape of the election. “This race is incredibly tight,” said Steve Cortes, a former adviser to Trump. “We shouldn’t pass up a chance to connect with a large audience of voters.”

Harris confirmed her participation in the debate scheduled for October 23, after her campaign advocated for another face-off. Trump, however, has expressed skepticism about the timing, stating, “It’s too late to do another. I’d love to, but the voting is cast,” referring to his earlier debate with President Biden.

Trump’s allies contend that a second debate could allow him to refine his focus on policy issues rather than engage in distractions. Dan Eberhart, a Trump supporter, emphasized the need for the former president to maintain a policy-driven approach to secure victory. Yet, Trump’s tendency to stray from policy discussions could pose a challenge, as seen during the last debate when he made controversial claims about migrants that many found unconvincing.

Cortes noted the duality of Trump’s strategy, recognizing the potential strength in addressing contentious topics while also urging a focus on critical issues like illegal immigration, which has deeply affected smaller communities.

In response to calls for a rematch, the Trump campaign referenced his assertion that he won the first debate, declaring, “When a prizefighter loses a fight, the first words out of his mouth are, ‘I WANT A REMATCH.’” Trump criticized Harris for her absence from previous debates and expressed reluctance to engage again.

Harris, in turn, has ramped up her challenge to Trump, stating during a fundraiser that he appears to be avoiding the debate stage and emphasizing the voters’ right to hear their respective plans.

Polling data reflects a narrow lead for Harris over Trump, with her advantage growing slightly since their last debate. However, some Republicans argue that the moderators’ performance during the first debate was unfair to Trump and question the value of another debate given the early voting already underway in several states.

Strategist Ford O’Connell remarked on the challenges of a fair debate environment, while others suggested that Harris should instead engage more with the media through interviews.

Amid differing opinions, the general consensus is that a second debate carries risks for Trump, particularly if he cannot adopt a more disciplined approach. “Debates haven’t traditionally benefitted Trump unless his opponent falters,” noted Bruce Mehlman, a former official in George W. Bush’s administration.

As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on whether Trump will ultimately choose to step back onto the debate stage against Harris.

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