No audience, muted microphones, and very tight timing: Biden and Trump debate for the first time

Biden is the eldest of the candidates, and he has recently seemed very fragile and confused at times. “He has to convince the voter that he can still do it,” says van den Bulke. “Even though Trump is only a few years younger, it’s mainly about Biden’s age. He has to show that he’s not too old.”

The current president takes this discussion very seriously. He had already retreated to his country retreat at Camp David for a week. This full focus is also essential, says Voss. “The moment he seriously stumbles over his words or looks confused could be enough.”

“Democrats hope that Biden will not fall on the ice by making mistakes, and will come out clearly,” says American correspondent Björn Sonnens. “He must prove to the American people that, at the age of 81, he is still firmly in control of the reins of the most important country in the world.”

If Biden doesn’t convince, Voss says there’s little chance he’ll be sidelined at the Democratic convention. “It’s very unusual and hasn’t happened in years,” he says. “But it could be possible. Even if it’s very late, because you’re running against someone who’s doing well in the polls and is ready for the election in November.”