Friend of the pod Alyssa Mastromonaco, former Deputy Chief of Staff under Obama, talks about what to expect from the Biden-Trump debate. Also, Supreme Court accidentally hints at allowing emergency abortions in Idaho, Midwest faces dangerous flooding, and Alex Morgan left off US Women's National Team's Olympic roster.
The upcoming debate between President Biden and former President Trump marks historical significance with format changes like muted microphones and no audience.
Alyssa Mastromonaco advises Biden to focus on composure and seriousness amidst potential distractions during the debate.
Deep dives
Debate Details and Preparation
The podcast discusses the upcoming debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. The debate, happening in Atlanta and hosted by CNN, marks the first time in history that a sitting and former president will debate. Changes in this debate include commercial breaks, muted microphones, and no audience. Alyssa Mastromonaco, former White House deputy chief of staff, advises Biden to treat the debate with utmost seriousness and focus on staying composed amid Trump's potential distractions.
Impact of Format Changes and Audience Reception
The podcast highlights the significant format changes for the Biden-Trump debate, including muted microphones and no audience. These alterations aim to prevent disruptions and focus more on the candidates' responses. The absence of an audience may impact the debate's engagement level, as viewers usually seek to learn more about the candidates, despite already being familiar with Biden and Trump.
Kenyan Political Unrest and Extreme Weather
The podcast touches on the political unrest in Kenya following protests against a finance bill that proposed tax hikes. President William Ruto announced the withdrawal of the bill amid violent clashes and calls for resignations. Additionally, severe thunderstorms and heavy rain in the Upper Midwest have led to flooding, forcing residents to evacuate and triggering federal disaster declarations. The adverse weather conditions have affected millions of people across several states.
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are set to square off tonight in their first debate of the presidential election — and the first debate in history between a sitting and former president. Whether you've been waiting for it or dreading it, the debate is expected to draw millions of viewers, even though Election Day is still months away. Friend of the pod and 'Hysteria' co-host Alyssa Mastromonaco served as the deputy chief of staff under President Barack Obama. She explains what we should expect from tonight's big event.
And in headlines: The Supreme Court accidentally posted an opinion suggesting it may allow emergency abortions in Idaho, much of the upper Midwest is getting pounded by heavy rain and dangerous flooding, and soccer star Alex Morgan has been left off the U.S. Women's National Team's Olympic roster.