Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has announced that he will not take part in a third debate with Kamala Harris before the upcoming November 5th election. Trump made the declaration on his social media platform Truth Social, stating that he has already debated both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and sees no need for another debate.
Speaking at a rally in Tucson, Arizona, Trump proclaimed his victory in the previous debates:
“I’ve already debated Kamala Harris, and I won. Why would I need to do it again? When a fighter loses, they always ask for a rematch. That’s what Kamala is doing.”
Despite Trump’s claims, polls show a mixed reaction from voters. Several post-debate surveys indicate that Harris performed better in their first debate. At a rally in North Carolina, Harris responded to Trump’s refusal, urging him to reconsider:
“The American people deserve to hear more from us before they make their decision. I believe we owe it to the voters to have another debate.”
Polling data shows a close race between Trump and Harris. A Fusion Reports survey of likely voters indicates that Trump is ahead with 49% of the vote, while Harris has 47%. In Michigan, a key swing state, an Insider Advantage poll gives Trump a slight one-point lead. However, a Reuters/Ipsos poll taken after their first debate has Harris leading Trump 47% to 42%.
The two campaigns remain in a deadlock as election day approaches, with voters closely watching the candidates’ moves. Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has dismissed accusations of bias within the Justice Department and condemned the rising threats directed at its employees amid the heated political environment.