2024 Showdown: How to Watch Harris vs. Trump Debate Tonight

The upcoming presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is poised to be a pivotal moment in the 2024 election.

Following President Biden's unexpected exit from the race, this face-off could significantly influence the outcome in battleground states where polls show a tight contest.

Both candidates bring unique strengths and weaknesses to the stage.

Harris, a former prosecutor, is known for using memorable phrases and analogies, such as "You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?"

Harris also frequently repeats the phrase "What can be, unburdened by what has been."

While some view these rhetorical techniques as effective, others have criticized her for overusing certain phrases and anecdotes in her speeches and interviews. David Sokol/Wicked Local / USA TODAY NETWORK

Trump, known for his showmanship, has a track record of dominating debates since 2016.

The 90-minute event, hosted at Philadelphia's National Constitution Center and moderated by ABC News, will test their ability to articulate economic policies, demonstrate leadership, and sway undecided voters. Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Harris, who has been carefully managed since becoming the Democratic nominee, is seen by many in her party as an underdog with potential for victory.

However, the high-stakes nature of the debate has Democrats on edge. David Sokol/Wicked Local / USA TODAY NETWORK

The vice president has been preparing by studying Trump's past debate performances.

In a recent interview on "The Rickey Smiley Morning Show", Harris expressed her expectations for the debate: "He's going to lie. There's no floor for how low he will go. We should be prepared for that. We should be prepared for the fact that he is not burdened by telling the truth."

She added, "Ultimately, you know, what I intend to point out is ... he tends to fight for himself, not for the American people. And I think that's going to come out during the debate." Rick Cinclair/Telegram & Gazette / USA TODAY NETWORK

Trump, now 78, faces renewed scrutiny about his age and capacity.

The debate, expected to draw tens of millions of viewers, will put these concerns under the spotlight. Matthew Dae Smith/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

The event will be broadcast live on ABC at 9 p.m. EDT, with no live audience present.

Viewers can stream the debate through various platforms, including Hulu Live and ABC NewsLive, with some services offering free trials. Andrew Craft / USA TODAY NETWORK