VIRGINIA, USA — Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump will face off for the first time on the debate stage Tuesday night.
The historic showdown between the presidential nominees has political experts and average voters alike talking about the possible outcomes.
“I expect to see two different styles of approach of communication to the American people," said Dr. Eric Claville, a political expert who teaches at Norfolk State University.
As of Sept. 10, the day of the debate, 55 days remain until Election Day, and the race remains tight. Claville said the debate could carry weight this November. He believes the debate is Harris' to win or lose.
“I mean Vice President Harris has more at stake. I believe she’s still introducing herself to the American people," said Claville. "I think at this point voters are looking at her policies and how she would actually lead."
The last presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Trump in June sparked a whirlwind of an election cycle, including a change on the democratic ticket. In a matter of weeks, Harris took over as the party's presidential candidate and official nominee.
Claville predicts Harris will lean on her skills as a prosecutor and experience in elected office.
On the Republican side, he expects to see a familiar strategy from the former president.
“I believe that America knows, and even the supporters and voters know exactly what you’re going to get from the former president. You know they’ve done this before," said Claville. “I don’t think that if Trump has a bad night or a good night, I don’t think it changes much for his voters."
Claville expects key debate issues to include the economy, abortion rights, immigration and the nation's role in wars in the Middle East and Russia.
The first debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will begin at 9 p.m. on 13News Now.