Trump vs. Harris: Behind-the-Scenes Prep for Debate Reveals Two Distinct Approaches
As the much-anticipated Trump-Harris debate draws closer, both candidates are busy preparing for what could be a pivotal moment in their campaigns. However, their methods could not be more different, reflecting their distinct styles and strategies.
Kamala Harris: A Structured Approach
Vice President Kamala Harris has taken an intensive, highly organized route to her debate prep. She’s staying at a hotel in Pittsburgh for five days, where her team has recreated a debate stage complete with lighting, podiums, and advisers posing as opponents. One adviser has even fully embraced the role of Donald Trump, mimicking his style, posture, and speech as if he were performing in a Hollywood film. This method-acting approach is designed to prepare Harris for the unpredictable and sometimes chaotic energy Trump brings to debates.
Harris’s team believes that the upcoming debate is a key opportunity for her to introduce herself to millions of swing voters who may not have a fully formed opinion of her yet. The goal is to showcase her presidential qualities, keeping her cool while pushing Trump to lose his temper. According to sources close to her, Harris’s main strategy is to bait Trump into one of his famously impulsive outbursts, while maintaining her composure and focusing on issues that resonate with everyday Americans.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who debated Trump in 2016, has reportedly advised Harris to avoid being baited herself. Clinton shared that when she called Trump a “Russian puppet” during their debate, he became flustered and defensive. Harris’s team hopes for a similar outcome—where Trump is rattled, and Harris remains unshaken.
Donald Trump: Policy Refresh Over Traditional Prep
On the other side, former President Donald Trump has opted for a more laid-back approach, preferring impromptu policy discussions with his close advisers rather than a rigid, scripted preparation. He is reportedly not undergoing traditional debate “prep” but rather what his team calls “policy time.” During these sessions, Trump refreshes his knowledge of key policies and topics, occasionally fielding tough questions from his advisers, including Representative Matt Gaetz and former Democratic Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.
Trump’s team is aware of the dangers of his aggressive debate style, particularly his tendency to interrupt opponents. This was notably a problem during his first 2020 debate against Joe Biden. His advisers are pushing for a more balanced approach, emphasizing “happy Trump” over “bully Trump.” They hope he can remain calm and focused on policy, especially when discussing sensitive topics such as his legal battles or past controversies.
One key challenge for Trump will be tackling questions about abortion, a topic that has become increasingly divisive, even within his own base. His position has been inconsistent in recent months, and the debate will be his chance to clarify where he stands on the issue. His advisers are also focusing on how he can pin the current administration’s economic challenges, including inflation and immigration issues, on Harris, casting her as an extension of Biden’s unpopular policies.
A Battle for the Swing Vote
Both Harris and Trump know that this debate is not just about scoring points with their loyal supporters—it’s about winning over the undecided voters, particularly those who feel disillusioned by the current economic and political climate. Harris plans to focus on Trump’s wealthy background, painting him as a rich man who looks out for other wealthy people rather than the working class. This populist message is designed to appeal to those who are struggling with rising costs and economic instability.
Trump, meanwhile, hopes to recreate a moment similar to Ronald Reagan’s famous 1980 debate question: “Are you better off now than you were four years ago?” His strategy will be to tie Harris to President Biden’s administration, particularly its handling of the economy, public safety, and immigration, areas where voters have expressed dissatisfaction. Trump’s camp believes that if he can make voters associate Harris with these issues, it could swing the undecided vote in his favor.
Both teams understand that the debate is about more than just policy—it’s about perception. Harris wants to come across as cool-headed, knowledgeable, and presidential, while Trump’s team is pushing for him to display the charm and confidence that helped him win in 2016.
What’s at Stake?
This debate represents a defining moment for both candidates. For Harris, it’s her chance to show the country that she’s ready for the highest office. For Trump, it’s a moment to prove that he can still capture the nation’s attention and sway undecided voters despite his legal troubles and controversial past. With high stakes and very different preparation styles, both candidates are aiming to deliver a performance that could alter the trajectory of their campaigns.
The debate promises to be a critical turning point in the race, and both camps are treating it as such. Harris’s detailed and focused rehearsals signal her desire to present a polished image, while Trump’s more relaxed, conversational approach suggests he is confident in his ability to command the stage.