University of Kansas professor discusses the first 2024 Presidential Debate

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Dr. Robert Rowland, a University of Kansas Communication studies professor, said that the most successful presidents tend to be the best persuaders.

President Joseph R. Biden and Former President Donald J. Trump are trying to prove that point in the June 27th, 2024 Presidential Debates.

Biden and Trump have different rhetorical skills and styles, making this first presidential debate one to remember.

Dr. Rowland believes that Biden often speaks to a shared identity between all Americans, while Trump activates negative emotions, that resonate with his base.

Both candidates will need to answer public doubts over their perceptions.

“A lot of people are fearful about former President Trump and he needs to reassure them,” said Dr. Rowland. “His normal tendency is to attack, attack, and attack, and that risks activating the same kind of fear that led to President Biden being elected.”

Biden has a couple of issues he must address on the stage tonight. “President Biden needs to reassure people about the status of the economy, and that he gets it; that he knows that the inflation spike has been hard on people. He especially needs to reassure people about his vigor. That he has the mental acuity and the energy to serve another four years.”

The debate will be tonight at 7 pm. CST. You can view it on our station at that time.

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