The rules for the upcoming presidential debate include a 90-minute duration with two commercial breaks, restrictions on candidates interacting with staff and bringing props or pre-written notes. The absence of a live studio audience could benefit Joe Biden. CNN plans to mute candidates' mics to prevent crosstalk, which could impact impromptu exchanges that have favored Trump in the past. Conservatives claim the rules aim to protect Biden from direct exchanges, while Democrats see them as promoting proper decorum in engagement.