Margaret Chrystall
Updated on: October 8, 2024 1:02 pm GMT
In a significant event ahead of the 2024 presidential election, President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris will face off in their first debate on September 10 at 9 p.m. EDT. This much-anticipated debate will take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, marking the first in-person meeting of the two candidates since Harris became the Democratic nominee following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
The debate is expected to be a pivotal moment for both candidates as they aim to sway undecided voters just weeks before Election Day. It offers a platform for Trump to outline his policies while also challenging Harris on key issues. Both candidates have agreed to specific debate rules, which include using muted microphones when it is not their turn to speak. Moderated by David Muir and Linsey Davis of ABC News, the event will also feature national coverage through live blogging and analysis from ABC News Digital and 538.
How to Watch the Debate
Viewers have multiple options to watch the debate. It will be broadcast live on ABC and will also stream on ABC News Live, Disney+, and Hulu. The streaming capability extends across a wide range of platforms, including:
- Samsung TV+
- The Roku Channel
- Amazon Fire TV devices
- YouTube
- Tubi
- The ABC app (available on mobile devices)
- ABC.com on connected devices
Before the debate, a pre-debate special titled “Race for the White House” will air at 8 p.m. EDT, featuring an array of ABC News correspondents providing context and insight into the election landscape.
DirectTV and Disney Dispute: What to Expect
In parallel with the debate preparations, DirecTV is currently embroiled in a carriage dispute with Disney, leading to a blackout of Disney-owned networks, including ESPN, on DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and AT&T U-verse. As the football season gains momentum, sports fans are seeking alternatives to keep up with college football, the U.S. Open, and Monday Night Football.
In a bid to retain subscribers who may be frustrated by the blackout, DirecTV has introduced a promotional offer for rival streaming services, notably Fubo and Sling. Football fans can take advantage of a $30 credit for Sling Orange service and a promotional deal from Fubo, which includes a free 7-day trial and a $30 discount for the first month following subscription. These alternatives allow continued access to popular Disney networks and sports programming.
Implications for Viewers and Voters
As the presidential debate and the sports broadcast controversy converge, viewers are poised to navigate a complex viewing landscape. With the September 10 debate being a crucial opportunity for both candidates, and the ongoing DirecTV-Disney dispute affecting sports fans, many are reassessing their viewing options.
The stakes are high; not only will the debate serve as a litmus test for voter sentiment heading into the election, but the DirecTV blackout may also influence how sports fans make choices about their cable and streaming subscriptions. The increased competition among streaming services as they vie for viewership during a pivotal sports season may further complicate these dynamics.
The fallout from the carriage dispute highlights a growing trend in media consumption, where traditional television is increasingly challenged by the convenience and flexibility of streaming services. As the sports season unfolds and the political landscape heats up, viewers will need to stay informed about their options and make decisions that best suit their preferences for news and entertainment.
Accessibility and Engagement
ABC News provides significant engagement opportunities for viewers through various platforms, ensuring that audiences can participate in real-time discussions and access in-depth analysis as the debate progresses. This aligns with a broader trend in media that emphasizes accessibility and engagement, particularly during key political events.
People are talking a lot about politics and the news these days. This shows how quickly things can change in both politics and the way we get our news. As people change what they want to know, candidates and news organizations need to be quick and smart in how they share information to connect with everyone.
