Former President Trump has expressed concerns about the fairness of ABC News and suggested he may withdraw from the upcoming debate against Vice President Kamala Harris.
Former President Donald Trump has raised the possibility of withdrawing from the scheduled debate against Vice President Kamala Harris with ABC News on September 10, citing perceived bias from the network.
During a campaign stop in Falls Church, Virginia, Trump launched a verbal attack on ABC, labeling it "the single worst network for unfairness" and suggesting it should be "shut out." He particularly criticized ABC Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl for his handling of an interview with Republican Senator Tom Cotton.
Trump Considers Ditching ABC Debate, Accuses Network of Bias
Trump's grievances stem from observations made on ABC's Sunday shows and the network's coverage of his administration. He accused ABC of being unfair to him, claiming that it has asked him tougher questions than other networks and portrayed him in a negative light.
In particular, Trump highlighted the spat between his and Harris' campaigns over the rules of the debate, which revolve around whether microphones will be cut off for candidates who exceed their allotted speaking times.
Trump Considers Ditching ABC Debate, Accuses Network of Bias
Trump also brought attention to his ongoing lawsuit against ABC News and host George Stephanopoulos for defamation, stemming from Stephanopoulos's remarks that Trump was "found liable for rape" during an interview with Republican Representative Nancy Mace.
Furthermore, Trump lashed out at Sunday's round table on "This Week," which included former Democratic National Committee interim chair Donna Brazile, whom he accused of providing topics for a town hall ahead of time during the 2016 campaign, leading to her departure from CNN.
Trump Considers Ditching ABC Debate, Accuses Network of Bias
Trump also noted Dana Walden, a senior Disney executive whose portfolio includes ABC News, as one of Harris' closest friends. He implied that this connection could influence ABC's coverage of the debate.
Trump's accusations have been met with mixed reactions. Some have questioned his motives, suggesting that he may be trying to intimidate ABC into giving him more favorable treatment. Others have expressed sympathy for Trump's concerns about bias, but have urged him to participate in the debate to engage with voters.
The network's primetime debate is set for Sept. 10, and will be moderated by ABC anchors David Muir and Linsey Davis. It remains to be seen whether Trump will ultimately decide to participate in the event. If he does not, it would be a major blow to the network and could raise further questions about the fairness and impartiality of the media.
