Photo: AFP
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have seemingly agreed to hold two debates this summer, ahead of their 2024 presidential election rematch in November.
For the first time in decades, the debates will not be run by the Commission on Presidential Debates after Biden's campaign informed the commission he would not participate.
Instead, Biden proposed two debates, one in June and one in September, organized by news organizations and the campaigns.
Trump responded favorably to the proposal in a post on Truth Social.
"I am Ready and Willing to Debate Crooked Joe at the two proposed times in June and September," Trump wrote. "I would strongly recommend more than two debates and, for excitement purposes, a very large venue, although Biden is supposedly afraid of crowds – That's only because he doesn't get them. Just tell me when, I'll be there. 'Let's get ready to Rumble!!!'"
A few hours later, Biden said he accepted an invitation to a debate hosted by CNN on June 27.
"Over to you, Donald. As you said: anywhere, anytime, any place," Biden said.
ABC News said that it will be hosting the second debate on September 10.
Trump's campaign has not responded to the proposal.
While both candidates appear ready to hit the debate stage, there are numerous hurdles and logistical workings to figure out, and it is unclear if the two campaigns can reach an agreement on the style and rules of the two debates.