Tipsheet

Trump, Biden Campaigns Bicker Over Last Minute Debate Negotiations

UPDATE: The Trump campaign released a statement on Tuesday reminding Biden's team that they agreed to do an earpiece inspection several days ago.

“Joe Biden’s handlers several days ago agreed to a pre-debate inspection for electronic earpieces but today abruptly reversed themselves and declined," said Tim Murtaugh, Trump 2020 communications director. "Biden’s handlers have asked for multiple breaks during the debate, which President Trump doesn’t need, so we have rejected that request. On top of the refusal to take a drug test, it seems pretty obvious that the Biden team is looking for any safety net they can find in the hours leading up to the debate. With his 47 years as a failed Washington politician, how much help does Biden want?”

ORIGINAL POST

Tuesday marks the first 2020 presidential debate between President Trump and Joe Biden in Cleveland, Ohio, and the two campaigns are struggling over some last minute negotiations. 

Fox News producer Pat Ward shared some of the new details. Reportedly, the Trump campaign is asking for ear tests for both candidates before they take the stage, and Biden's team is resisting. The Democrat has also asked for there to be two breaks.

That means that tonight's debate will be a 90-minute commercial-free program.

While some analysts have been questioning how Biden will fare tonight, the Trump campaign is reportedly not underestimating his debate skills. Because, as they rightly note, he's done this once or twice before.

Tonight's contest, which will be moderated by Fox News Sunday anchor Chris Wallace, kicks off at at 9 p.m. ET.