Was Trump Indicted For Challenging 2020 Election Like He Claims?

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Democrats Worried About Biden Debating Trump

Democratic legislators are hesitant about President Biden debating former President Trump, concerned it might undesirably boost Trump’s profile as the probable Republican nominee. Trump, having skipped all GOP primary debates, expressed eagerness to debate Biden, even suggesting 10 debates. However, Democrats like Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (Ill.) are wary, recalling Trump’s behavior in past debates with Hillary Clinton as an example of his extremism.

Privately, Democrats hope for Trump’s downfall due to his legal challenges and divisive rhetoric, which they believe alienates women and swing voters. Biden’s age, 81, is seen as a vulnerability, especially compared to Trump, who is 77. Democrats acknowledge Biden’s victory in the 2020 debates against Trump but are concerned about the impact of four more years on Biden’s debate performance.

A major worry for Democrats is that even a moderately successful performance by Trump could be perceived positively, much like George W. Bush’s unexpected debate performance in 2000. They fear that sharing a debate stage with Trump might legitimize his often inflammatory and baseless claims, like his recent remarks about immigrants ‘poisoning’ the country.

Democrats also argue that Trump’s refusal to debate his Republican opponents and his behavior in the 2020 debates should disqualify him from being granted the legitimacy of a debate with Biden. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) labeled Trump’s comments as fascist and pointed out Trump’s disrespect for debate protocols.

While some Democrats, like strategist James Carville, believe avoiding a debate could be damaging for Biden, others think Biden shouldn’t feel compelled to debate Trump. Carville notes that if Trump wins the GOP nomination, he gains legitimacy, despite facing numerous felony charges. He also mentions that the Commission on Presidential Debates has already scheduled three debates for the general election.

The decision ultimately rests with Biden and his campaign. The debates could be a platform for Biden to highlight his accomplishments, but Democrats acknowledge the risks of engaging with Trump, known for disregarding debate rules and focusing on sensational claims.