Why Trump Refuses to Debate Kamala Harris on ABC: A Closer Look

Donald Trump's decision not to participate in a debate with Kamala Harris on ABC has sparked speculation and criticism. There are several underlying reasons for this refusal, the most prominent of which is his fear of a public embarrassment and the potential ridicule he might face.

Fear of Public Exposure and Ridicule

Trump is wary of engaging in another debate that might result in a similar outcome as his past encounters. During the 2016 presidential election, Trump’s debate performances were often under pressure, and his weaknesses were frequently highlighted. He fears repeating such an experience, especially given that it could lead to widespread public ridicule and further diminish his public image. For a politician used to having full control over the narrative, such an exposure can be devastating.

False Accusations and One-sided Fact-checking

Another issue is the constant false accusations that Kamala Harris was given the questions in advance of debates. While Trump has been known to level such claims, there is no credible evidence to support these allegations. The moderators, who are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the debate, did an extensive fact-checking on Trump but did not apply the same rigor to Kamala Harris. This unevenness in fact-checking has garnered criticism, with some arguing that it was long overdue for both sides to be held to the same standards. However, these accusations can often be dismissed as political noise designed to create division rather than contribute to a candid debate.

Continuous Deception and Lack of Media Scrutiny

A significant aspect of Trump's reluctance to debate is his history of deceit. Throughout his presidency, he lied continuously, often without any repercussions. It was surprising that he allowed himself to be fact-checked so infrequently. Reopening the door for such scrutiny now, through a debate, represents a threat to his image and the narrative he has cultivated. By refusing to engage in a debate, Trump can avoid the necessary exposure and the potential for further damage to his credibility. This decision can be seen as a strategic move to avoid confrontation and further accusations of dishonesty.

Winning Elections, Not Debates

Despite Trump's claims that his previous debate performances were his best ever, the reality is quite different. The doubt over his performance remains among the public, and the political landscape has shifted. Trump's approach is now focused on securing the necessary legal and procedural groundwork for an inevitable electoral fraud claim, rather than preparing for another debate. This strategy not only reflects a pessimistic outlook on his chances but also a preference for handling his losses through legal channels rather than public engagement.

As the election approaches, Trump’s need to consolidate his remaining fans becomes more critical. Engaging in a debate that might lead to further criticism and division would be counterproductive. His decision to avoid debates can be framed as a calculated move to retain his political base while preparing for the post-election legal battles.

The Endgame and Exhaustion

Ultimately, the long campaign is coming to a close. Seven more weeks until the election, and the debates will be a distant memory. Trump's followers may continue to bleat about their losses, but eventually, the legal battles and court proceedings will overshadow the political discourse. Trump himself will no longer occupy the center of public attention, as the fruitless legal battles will consume his time and energy. The inevitable silence following his loss will be a stark relief for many.

The Takeaway

The decision by Trump to refuse to debate Kamala Harris is a multifaceted strategic move. It reflects his fears of public exposure, his history of deception, and his strategic focus on legal strategies rather than public engagement. While Kamala Harris may have emerged victorious from previous encounters, the bigger picture is one of exhaustion and a looming end to the political saga that has dominated the news cycle for years.