At a glance, this debate feels like it should be over already.
But, despite what seems like an ever-growing list of reasons to vote for literally anyone else other than Biden — including economic collapse, chaos at the border and a world on fire — Trump fans need to realize that his victory is far from a foregone conclusion. With that in mind, here are three things the former president must do to ensure that he relegates the current president back to where he belongs: a nice warm armchair within shuffling distance of a well-stocked fridge, a television with large subtitles and an accessible toilet.
First, the Trump of 2016 needs to return.
Trump’s debate performance in 2016 was, frankly, perfect. He was poised, controlled and — when necessary — brutal. He reversed accusations of tax impropriety as proof of his business acumen. He brought Hillary Clinton’s various scandals to light through humor, with her infamous emails being a particular highlight. And his “because you’d be in jail” retort was the final nail in Clinton’s campaign coffin.
In 2016, Trump managed to focus all of his strengths in what was a meticulous takedown of Clinton. In 2020, however, too many of Trump’s weaknesses were on full display. He was abrasive, undisciplined and careless, allowing the media to rally behind Biden and hide what were his obvious flaws, even then.
If the Trump of 2016 shows up on Thursday evening, Biden is toast. If the Trump of 2020 shows up, Biden will stand a chance … if he’s able to stand at all.
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