Trump teases debate withdrawal - Is September 10 showdown with Kamala Harris on ABC News in jeopardy?

In a dramatic twist that has the political world buzzing, former President Donald

Trump

cast doubt on his participation in the highly anticipated September 10 debate against Vice President

Kamala Harris

, set to air on

ABC News

. Trump's Sunday evening social media post ignited speculation and raised eyebrows as he questioned the integrity of the network hosting the debate.
Trump, known for his colorful commentary and penchant for controversy, took aim at ABC News in his post, criticizing the network for its alleged bias.

He referenced a recent interview with Senator Tom Cotton and accused ABC of showcasing a “Panel of Trump Haters.” “Why would I do the debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” Trump questioned, hinting that he might pull out of the scheduled showdown.

The debate, initially the only confirmed network debate for both campaigns, is now shrouded in uncertainty. Trump's remarks come at a time when Harris is gaining traction in national polls and tightening her grip on crucial swing states.

As of Sunday, polling averages show Harris leading in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, with a narrowing gap in Sun Belt states where Trump maintains a stronghold, reported the Washington Post.
The news has sparked a flurry of reactions on X, with users expressing their views on Trump's latest move. One user said, “Coward Trump is laying the groundwork for backing out of the debate with VP Kamala Harris. Classic move to avoid a tough fight.”

Meanwhile, another predicted, “I have a feeling Trump is going to cancel the ABC debate. He’s not going to risk it with Harris, especially with his current poll numbers.” Another user added, “Trump is not ready for this debate. He’s going to get humiliated. I can’t wait to see how this unfolds.”

This is not Trump’s first flirtation with

debate withdrawal

.
Earlier this month, he declared he would skip the September 10 debate—originally set with President Joe Biden before Biden's exit from the race—favoring instead a debate on September 4 hosted by Fox News. After a brief change of heart, Trump had reaffirmed his commitment to the ABC debate, while still proposing additional debates with other networks.

The Harris campaign, while not immediately responding to Trump's latest social media volley, had previously declared the debate schedule finalized. Michael Tyler, the Harris campaign’s communications director, responded earlier by asserting, “The debate about debates is over,” emphasizing the anticipation for the upcoming face-offs.
Trump's post also threw shade at George Stephanopoulos, nicknaming him “Liddle’ George Slopadopolus” and questioning why Harris turned down other major networks like Fox, NBC, CBS, and even CNN. “Stay tuned!!!” Trump teased, leaving the door open for more twists in this ongoing debate saga.