Scouting Report: What the 2020 Debates Reveal About a Biden-Trump Matchup
President Biden will turn and look straight into the camera, ignoring his opponent and the moderators, speaking directly to voters. At least once.
Look for Mr. Trump to seize the spotlight at every opportunity, bulldozing anyone on the stage — including the moderators.
It has been nearly four years since either Mr. Trump or Mr. Biden has appeared on a debate stage. But there is one place to look to predict their moves when they face off Thursday in Atlanta: Go back to the tapes.
The two men spent a total of 180 minutes sparring in 2020. The sessions were loud, combative, chaotic and often nasty — but they were also instructive, suggesting the styles and weaknesses that may be on display again.
We rewatched both debates of 2020. (Twice!) Here, if you will, is a scouting report, a look at what to expect from the two candidates.
Donald J. Trump
Attack, Attack, Attack
transcript
In 2020, Donald J. Trump launched into a series of attacks and interruptions seeking to rattle Joseph R. Biden Jr.
“In 47 months, I’ve done more than you’ve done in 47 years, Joe.” “We have to provide health insurance for people at an affordable rate. And that’s what I do.” “President Trump —” “Excuse me. He was there for 47 years. He didn’t do it.” “I want to make sure —” “You graduated last in your class. Not first in your class.” “God, I want to make sure —” “Mr. President, can you let him finish, sir?” “He doesn’t know how to do that.”
In 2020, Donald J. Trump launched into a series of attacks and interruptions seeking to rattle Joseph R. Biden Jr.CreditCredit…C-SPAN
