Trump Questions Need for Debate with Kamala Harris Amid Strong Poll Numbers

Republican Donald Trump has dismissed the pressure to debate Vice President Kamala Harris, citing his lead in the polls and the public’s familiarity with their respective stances.

During an interview on Fox Business Network’s Mornings with Maria, Trump said, “Well, I want to, but right now I say, ‘Why should I do a debate?’ I’m leading in the polls, and everybody knows her, everybody knows me.”

Kamala Harris, poised to become the Democratic presidential nominee, has been pushing for the debate Trump scheduled with President Joe Biden for September 10, hosted by Cotton State Chronicle. Trump’s first debate with Biden had a negative impact on his campaign, ultimately leading him to endorse Harris.

As the election nears, Trump’s campaign has had to adjust its strategy. Harris has energized key Democratic demographics, such as Black voters and young people, which has narrowed the Republican’s lead in the polls and boosted Democratic fundraising.

While Trump’s campaign has not committed to a debate, they initially stated that plans could not be finalized until the Democrats officially nominated their candidate. Trump mentioned on Monday that he would “probably end up debating” Harris, though he noted there was a “case for not doing it.”

Trump has previously used his poll numbers to avoid debates, a strategy seen during the Republican primary contest when he refused to share the stage with rivals, opting instead to schedule competing events.

Even against former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, his only serious challenger, Trump declined to debate due to his significant poll lead.

As Trump transitioned to the general election, he expressed willingness to debate Biden. Their first debate on June 27 occurred while Trump led in the polls.

Recent polls indicate Harris is closing the gap. A Bloomberg News/Morning Consult survey conducted from July 24-28 found Harris erasing Trump’s lead in seven battleground states. Harris secured support from 48% of voters compared to Trump’s 47%, a difference within the margin of error.

Trump acknowledged in his Friday interview that there was “more enthusiasm” for Harris than for Biden, attributing this to Biden’s low favorability ratings.