GOP pollster Frank Luntz explained Monday why he is adamant that the upcoming presidential debate between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican rival Donald Trump — set for Sept. 10 — is “the be-all and end-all” when it comes to the 2024 election.
Luntz, speaking with CNN's John Berman, also suggested questions Trump could ask that might confuse Harris — such as about inflation, how to bring it down and “most importantly,” using former President Ronald Reagan's phrase: “Are you better today than you were four years ago?”
“If he just asks that question, he will be successful. I don't believe he is capable of doing that,” Luntz said in an interview reported by Mediaite.
The debate, hosted by ABC News, will be the first time Harris and Trump will face each other, and voters will be paying attention not only to what they say but also to their body language, Luntz said.
“Is there disdain? Is someone folding their arms? Are they looking at the individual as they speak? Do they seem presidential in their approach?” Luntz said viewers will notice this.
“Can Trump keep his mouth shut? Can he really listen to a response or does he have to respond to everything?” the pollster continued. “Can Harris appear open-minded? Does she seem willing to take in information, not just project it?”
