In a sharp op-ed published this weekend, the Philadelphia Inquirer Editorial Board took a firm stance against former President Donald Trump’s participation in the upcoming presidential debate, asserting, “Given his appalling record, Trump has no business being on a presidential debate stage, let alone one in the shadows of Independence Hall.”
Despite this, with only two days until his debate against the 2024 Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, and with “roughly two months to go in what is expected to be a close election,” the board insists that Trump must be held accountable by debate moderators.
The editors believe that it’s not Trump or Harris who faces “the biggest challenge on Tuesday.” Instead, that responsibility falls on ABC News’ Linsey Davis and David Muir, who are moderating the debate. The board emphasizes the moderators’ duty to “press Trump to give substantive responses to their questions.”
“Voters need the media and debate moderators to treat Trump as the serious threat he is to the future of the country and the free world,” the op-ed continues. The piece underscores the importance of media accountability in ensuring that the former president is held responsible for his actions and statements. “Asking tough questions and holding Trump accountable is the proper role of the media to help inform voters,” the board declares.
In particular, the Inquirer editorial is highly critical of Trump’s past, describing him as a “convicted criminal, financial fraudster, and sexual predator” who should not return to office. In their view, the debate represents an essential moment for voters to gain clarity on the candidates and their potential leadership.
The op-ed goes on to offer a specific list of questions that the board believes debate moderators and political reporters should ask Trump. These questions, according to the board, are necessary to ensure voters have the information they need to make an informed decision in the upcoming election.
Ultimately, the editorial board calls for tough, direct questioning, writing, “The media’s role in this debate is critical—this is about preventing a dangerous figure from holding office again.” The editors conclude that the responsibility now lies with the debate moderators to ensure that Trump is confronted with his record in a meaningful and substantial way.