CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins appeared as the main interview guest on Real Time with Bill Maher this week, where much of the conversation focused on Donald Trump’s presidency and the U.S. relationship with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Joining the discussion were Democratic strategist James Carville and Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX).
Carville highlighted Trump’s polling struggles, particularly against Kamala Harris, noting that Trump consistently underperforms. He emphasized that Trump needs to gain at least three points to make a significant impact in the race, adding that the upcoming September 10th debate would be crucial for Trump to close the gap. Carville remarked:
“I think the debate on September 10th is going to be so consequential, and it’s going to have an audience that we can’t believe. Because what does America love? A train wreck.”
Collins responded by clarifying that Trump’s debate challenges weren’t a narrative created by Democrats. She pointed out that Trump is genuinely struggling to prepare for a debate against Harris and might not even want to participate:
“He really has struggled with how to combat her. And I think going into that debate, he does not really want to do it. It’s difficult, if not impossible, for him to pull out because his campaign had ‘anytime, anyplace’ cards printed for President Biden. Backing out now would make him look weak. But I don’t think he’s looking forward to it.”
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Trump has stirred up confusion by posting a made-up invitation for a debate with Harris on Fox News, setting a false September date in an attempt to replace the scheduled September 10 debate. This move has fueled Fox News trolling of Democrats during the Democratic National Convention, with Trump also citing his issues with ABC News as a reason for potentially pulling out of the agreed debate.
Carville reiterated the importance of Trump showing up for the debate to improve his polling numbers. Rep. Crenshaw added that the debate could be easy for Trump if he simply compares America under his administration with America under Biden.
Collins also noted that even Trump’s own campaign recognizes him as their biggest liability. If they give him talking points for the debate, there’s a good chance he’ll abandon them and instead launch personal attacks against Harris. At one point, Maher added that Trump doesn’t perform well against female opponents.
With the debate still uncertain, the question remains: will Trump show up, and if he does, what will unfold?
Featured Image via Screengrab.
