A Preview of the Debate: Harris and Trump’s Divergent Strategies

As Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris prepare for their first face-to-face debate at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center next week, their contrasting strategies reveal much about their campaign tactics and approaches to high-stakes moments.

For Harris, the preparation process has involved a unique method of visualizing the debate environment. She has worked with a stand-in for Trump, donning his characteristic red tie, to simulate the upcoming interaction. This technique aims to help her anticipate and strategize for Trump’s debating style. Trump, on the other hand, has opted for a less traditional approach. He has avoided using a stand-in for Harris, instead sticking with his previous practice of informal “policy time,” which was a hallmark of his preparation before his June debate with President Joe Biden.

The June debate was a setback for the incumbent president, leading to his reelection campaign’s abrupt end and the presidential race’s uncertain trajectory. Despite the switch at the top of the Democratic ticket, Trump’s approach to debate preparation remains largely unchanged. However, he has introduced a notable new element: Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic presidential contender and Harris’s ex-rival, now helps with preparation. Gabbard’s inclusion is significant given her past contentious interactions with Harris.

Trump’s camp views Gabbard’s insights as potentially valuable, although it’s unclear whether her involvement will yield positive results. Harris’s team, meanwhile, recognizes her position as an underdog in this debate, given Trump’s extensive debate experience. This will be his seventh debate, making him the most seasoned debater in history.

In the lead-up to the debate, Trump’s campaign schedule remains light, with the former president alternating between his Bedminster and Mar-a-Lago resorts and Trump Tower. His advisors have recommended focusing on key issues like inflation and immigration, aiming to portray Harris as the incumbent in this race. By linking Harris to President Biden’s less favorable areas, such as the economy and immigration, Trump’s team hopes to exploit his previous advantages over Biden.

Trump’s preparation also includes reviewing potential responses on reproductive rights, anticipating that Harris will emphasize this topic. Negotiations between the Trump and Harris campaigns are ongoing regarding debate rules, particularly concerning whether microphones will be muted when a candidate is not speaking. The Harris campaign advocates for keeping microphones live throughout, while Trump’s team prefers the format used in the June debate, where microphones were turned off for the non-speaking candidate.

Harris, now the Democratic nominee, has ramped up her debate preparations. Originally preparing for a debate with Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, she now faces the heightened stakes of debating Trump directly. Her preparation team includes Rohini Kosoglu, Karen Dunn, and other key advisors who have engaged in mock debates with Philippe Reines playing Trump.

Harris benefits from advice from former debate opponents Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton, both of whom have shared their experiences and strategies. However, some supporters of Harris, including Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, have warned against underestimating Trump, citing his past debate successes. Pritzker emphasizes the importance of presenting a clear, consistent message while avoiding being flustered by Trump’s aggressive tactics.

Trump’s approach to debate preparation remains consistent with past practices. Although his team avoids formal debate simulations, aides like Jason Miller, Vince Haley, and Stephen Miller assist with policy reviews. Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, who helped with Trump’s debate against Biden, is also expected to contribute this time.

Concerns have been raised about how Trump’s combative style might play against Harris, particularly given her potential reactions to personal attacks. Sources close to Harris indicate she is well-prepared for Trump’s approach and has a strategic plan in place. Allies advise her to stay focused on her message rather than engaging in direct competition with Trump’s stage presence.

Harris’s debate prep strategy also involves a reduced travel schedule, with her focus shifted to preparing in Pittsburgh ahead of the debate. This contrasts with Biden’s approach before his debate, which involved a retreat to Camp David without public appearances. Harris’s method mirrors the 2012 approach of then-President Barack Obama, who utilized “debate camps” in resort settings to prepare effectively.

As Trump and Harris prepare to meet, their contrasting strategies underscore their differing approaches to high-stakes political moments. The upcoming debate promises to be a defining moment in the presidential race, showcasing both candidates’ readiness and their strategic choices.