Diplomats in Washington are eagerly preparing to watch the first debate between President Biden and former President Donald Trump tonight. They are keen on analyzing Trump's comments and Biden's performance to provide detailed reports to their respective capitols.
One western diplomat highlighted the focus on Trump's words and substance, while also evaluating Biden's presentation during the debate. The diplomats acknowledge that the election is still months away, but they believe that the debate could significantly influence American voters.
Plans are in place to send comprehensive reports to the Capitol the morning after the debate, including expert political analysis and summaries of press coverage. The diplomats are particularly interested in assessing the vitality and leadership potential of both candidates as they navigate the final stretch of the campaign.
For Trump, there is anticipation surrounding his stance on key issues such as NATO, trade wars, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and competition with China. European diplomats express hope that Trump will emphasize NATO funding without jeopardizing the alliance's integrity.
On the other hand, most diplomats do not expect new policy insights from Biden, given his established track record. Instead, they will closely monitor his performance during the debate, focusing on his energy and ability to engage effectively.
The diplomatic community is poised to analyze the debate's implications on international perceptions and the candidates' strategies moving forward. With the potential for this to be the only debate, diplomats are committed to providing thorough assessments to inform their governments' understanding of the U.S. political landscape.
