>> Continued From the Previous Page <<
The rules come after days of intense negotiations, which many Republicans have criticized, suggesting that the Democrats are attempting to set a trap for Trump. Despite these concerns, the network has decided to uphold the mute protocol, mirroring the approach taken in the Trump-Biden CNN debate. ABC News Chief Counsel Eric Lieberman confirmed that both campaigns were notified of the decision in an email sent on Tuesday. The debate is set to take place at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, with both sides being requested to formally agree to the established rules.
The decision to stick with the mute protocol has sparked discussion among political circles, with some viewing it as an attempt to stifle Trump’s signature debate style, while others see it as a necessary measure to maintain order during the debate.
Meanwhile, in a separate media incident, HBO “Real Time” host Bill Maher took aim at CNN’s perceived bias during a recent interview with CNN host Kaitlin Collins. Maher challenged Collins over what he described as her network’s overly favorable coverage of Kamala Harris’ Democratic National Convention acceptance speech. Maher pointed out a viral moment from Collins’ appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” where the audience erupted in laughter when Colbert suggested that CNN was impartial.
“He [Colbert] said something like, ‘You guys at CNN just report the news,’ and the crowd burst into laughter,” Maher said, highlighting what he believes to be a clear public perception of CNN’s left-leaning bias.
Collins defended her network, arguing that CNN provides a platform for both sides of the political spectrum. “CNN is the place where both sides can watch, and I think my show is evidence of that. We have lawmakers on from both the parties. We’ll have Elizabeth Warren on one night, and we’ll have Ted Cruz on another night. I think lawmakers from both parties should take questions, and you should push both of them,” she said.
Brutal “Pocket Weapon” Stops Hearts (discounted for next 78)
Maher, however, was unconvinced, pointing out the disparity in coverage following Harris’ speech. “From 8:09 to 11:23, they were just gushing about how great a speech [Kamala Harris delivered at the convention]. And I think she did fine, I didn’t think it was as good as they were making it out to be,” Maher stated. He added that for conservative viewers, CNN’s coverage might come across as heavily biased, reinforcing their belief that the network is not truly neutral.
Collins continued to stand by her network, emphasizing her role in holding all sides accountable. “Look, I’m from Alabama,” she said. “I’m from a very red state, I have a very conservative family, and a lot of them are Trump voters. They watch my show every night, and they know that they can trust me, that we call bullshit on every side.”
As the September 10 debate approaches, the focus remains on how the rules will impact the dynamics between Harris and Trump. With the muted microphones in play, the debate is poised to be a controlled, yet potentially explosive event that could significantly shape the narrative leading up to the 2024 election. Both candidates will need to navigate these constraints carefully, with each side seeking to make the most of their time on the mic without being drowned out by the other.
