The campaigns of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are clashing over the format for their upcoming high-stakes debate on September 10. Harris’s campaign has demanded that microphones be muted except for the candidate currently speaking, a condition President Joe Biden’s team set for participating in debates this year. Trump, however, hinted he might skip the ABC-hosted debate. On Monday, Trump spoke at the National Guard Association of the United States conference in Detroit, accompanied by former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, who has endorsed him.

Kamala Harris’s campaign raises $540 million 

Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign has raised $540 million, with a notable surge in donations during the Democratic National Convention. The campaign’s fundraising success reflects strong support following President Joe Biden’s endorsement and withdrawal from the race on July 21.

Last year, Ron DeSantis’ campaign manager, Generra Peck, worked with Elon Musk on a Twitter Spaces event for DeSantis’ presidential announcement. Despite initial interest, the event was marred by technical issues, contributing to DeSantis’ campaign struggles. Now, Peck and Musk are collaborating on America PAC, which supports Donald Trump.

A Georgia judge has ruled that four independent and third-party candidates, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, Jill Stein, and Claudia De la Cruz, are ineligible for the state’s presidential ballot. The decision is now pending review by Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. If confirmed, only Harris, Trump, and Libertarian Chase Oliver will be on the ballot in Georgia.

Michelle Boyack, a national guard spouse from Salt Lake City, expressed frustration with Donald Trump’s focus on attacking Biden rather than outlining his policy plans. Meanwhile, Karen Dill, a retired accountant, was less concerned with Trump’s aggressive rhetoric, noting that decorum in politics has diminished.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has decided not to hear a challenge to Green Party candidate Jill Stein’s candidacy, allowing her to remain on the ballot. This decision comes amid concerns about the impact of third-party candidates in a state with closely contested elections.

Families of service members killed in the 2021 Kabul airport bombing are still seeking answers from the Biden administration. Alicia Lopez and Mark Schmitz, whose children were among the casualties, criticized both parties for not addressing the failures more thoroughly.

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Tulsi Gabbard endorses Trump 

Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has endorsed Donald Trump, aligning herself with his criticisms of Vice President Kamala Harris and the Afghanistan withdrawal. Gabbard, a National Guard veteran, appeared with Trump at a conference marking the third anniversary of the deadly Kabul attack.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, now Kamala Harris’ running mate, faces criticism for his military record, including his early retirement from the National Guard and alleged overstatements about his rank. Republicans are using this to contrast Walz’s service with Trump’s deferments during the Vietnam War.

Donald Trump addressed the National Guard Association’s conference in Detroit, marking his first of several campaign stops in Michigan. The visit underscores the importance of Michigan in the upcoming election.

As part of his focus on climate issues, Tim Walz has advanced legislation to streamline clean energy projects in Minnesota. His efforts to overcome regulatory hurdles are gaining attention as he joins Harris’ ticket, positioning him as a potential climate leader if they win.

Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance stated that Donald Trump would veto any federal abortion ban if elected. Vance emphasized Trump’s preference for states to handle abortion laws, aiming to avoid nationwide conflicts.

The 2024 presidential campaign is centred on contrasting narratives about America’s future. Candidates from both parties are framing their visions as part of a larger story about the nation’s direction, reflecting the ongoing battle for public perception.

(With agency inputs)