The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia has been selected as the venue for the first presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. The debate, scheduled for September 10 at 9 p.m. EST, will be moderated by ABC News anchors David Muir and Linsey Davis.
As a museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution, the National Constitution Center is a fitting location for the debate. The institution’s mission is to promote civil dialogue and debate, and it has a history of hosting high-profile events, including the 2008 Democratic primary presidential debate and town halls with Trump and Biden in 2020.
Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, expressed his organization’s honor at being chosen to host the debate. “Presidential debates are a valuable opportunity for Americans to learn about the principles that define our democracy,” he said.
The National Constitution Center is also known for its annual Liberty Medal award ceremony, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the cause of liberty. Past recipients of the award include former Sen. John McCain, former President George W. Bush, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
While the September 10 debate at the National Constitution Center is currently the only agreed-upon debate between the candidates, there were previously plans for three debates, including one hosted by Fox News. However, Trump recently claimed on his Truth Social account that Harris has refused to participate in the Fox News debate, which was tentatively scheduled for September 4. It remains to be seen whether additional debates will be scheduled in the future.
