Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has turned down Donald Trump’s proposal to move the presidential debate to Fox News, media reports stated on Sunday.
Trump, 78, and President Joe Biden had initially agreed in May to participate in two presidential debates: one hosted by CNN in June and the second by ABC News on September 10. After Biden withdrew from the race last month, Vice-President Harris, who has Indian and African heritage, was announced as the 2024 Democratic Party presidential nominee.
On Saturday, Trump accepted Fox News’ offer to hold a debate with Harris on September 4, CBS News reported.
“I have agreed with Fox News to debate Kamala Harris on Wednesday, September 4th. The debate was previously scheduled with Joe Biden on ABC, but due to conflicts, it has been terminated,” Trump said.
Harris responded on X, rejecting the offer.
“Interesting how ‘any time, any place’ becomes ‘one specific time, one specific safe space.’ I’ll be there on September 10th, like he agreed to. I hope to see him there,” Harris said.
The Harris campaign confirmed it would adhere to the original plan for an ABC News debate.
“Donald Trump is trying to avoid the debate he already agreed to with ABC News,” said Michael Tyler, the Harris campaign communication director. “He needs to stop playing games and show up on September 10. The Vice President will be there to speak to a prime-time national audience. We are open to further debates after this one takes place.”
Last month, Harris had challenged Trump to a debate, prompting him to respond that he would say whatever he needed “to her face.”
