Trump Campaign Declines Debate Date Commitment Till DNC

Donald Trump's campaign has announced it will not commit to vice-presidential debate dates until after the Democratic National Convention, which starts on August 19.

Vice President Kamala Harris had extended an invitation to Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance, for a debate after he was named this week. However, Trump's Senior Advisor Brian Hughes cited the uncertainty over the Democratic nominee for vice president as a reason for the delay.

Hughes mentioned it would be unfair to potential candidates like Gavin Newsom, JB Pritzker, or Gretchen Whitmer before the convention concludes. Biden-Harris 2024 Communications Director Brian Fallon criticized the move, pointing out that Trump had earlier claimed willingness to debate “anytime, anyplace” and chose Vance for his debating abilities. He suggested Vance's withdrawal is tied to a leak exposing his support for a nationwide abortion ban.

(With inputs from agencies.)