Kamala Harris skeptical Donald Trump will ‘show up’ to September 10 ABC presidential debate

If the September 10 debate happens, the shortened campaign timeline will make it key to the road to the White House.

President Joe Biden had hoped that June’s presidential debate would revitalize his faltering campaign. 

Now, Donald Trump appears to be making a similar gamble, reversing his stance and agreeing to debate on ABC next month as his new Democratic opponent gains momentum.

Trump doesn’t seem to believe he’ll face the same kind of setback that ended Biden’s campaign, but his decision — and his call for two more debates on NBC and Fox, which Vice President Kamala Harris has yet to agree to — reveals a key development in the election.

Following a whirlwind week for Harris and her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Trump suddenly feels like yesterday's news — a new and unsettling reality for the former president who usually commands the narrative.

Assuming the debate on September 10 proceeds, the lead-up will be intense, and the shortened campaign timeline suggests it could be a pivotal moment on the shrinking path to the White House.

Trump is already setting low expectations for his opponent, who could make history as the first Black woman and South Asian president. 

During a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Thursday, he criticized Harris, comparing her unfavorably to Biden, whom he had long claimed lacked the mental sharpness for the presidency.

“She’s actually not as smart as he is. I don’t think he’s very smart either, by the way. I’m not a big fan of his brain,” Trump said.

The upcoming debate presents a significant challenge for Harris. 

While the vice president had strong performances in early debates during her unsuccessful 2020 presidential campaign, she also faced difficulties in some instances. 

Her most challenging moments in office have often occurred when she's had to clarify her positions or respond to tough questions in high-profile interviews.

However, as Harris gains confidence in her role as the Democratic nominee, she has become a more seasoned politician compared to four years ago. 

Her supporters are eager to see her utilize her experience as a former prosecutor to take on the four-times indicted former president.

Harris took a shot at Trump for his reversal on participating in the ABC debate and mentioned that she was open to discussing a second debate at a later date.

“I’m glad that he’s finally agreed to a debate on September 10. I’m looking forward to it, and I hope he shows up,” she told reporters before boarding Air Force Two in Detroit.