ATLANTA — The 2024 presidential debate is underway on Thursday at CNN Studios in Atlanta as voters prepare to participate in an integral voting year.
During the debate, voters will have the opportunity to learn more about each candidate—Joe Biden, the current president and former vice president and Donald Trump, the former president who has gained a reputation in the judicial system -- and where they stand on important issues.
Many may wonder how old the two candidates are as the debate begins.
How old is Trump, Biden?
President Biden is 81 years old and the older presidential candidate. Trump turned 78 two weeks ago on June 14.
According to a CNN report, his Las Vegas supporters sang "Happy Birthday" to the former president just days after his actual birthday.
“There’s a certain point at which you don’t want to hear ‘Happy Birthday,’” the former president said when they finished singing the song, according to a CNN report. “You just want to pretend the day doesn’t exist.”
CNN noted that it is the same age Biden turned after he won the 2020 election. The report added that Trump's allies and campaign have constantly pointed out concerns about Biden’s fitness for office.
More about the debate
All eyes are on Atlanta as President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are due to face off on the debate stage Thursday night at CNN's Midtown studio. This marks the first debate ahead of the hotly contested November election.
During the 90-minute event, the candidates are expected to engage in a war of words; however, specific topics have not been released.
The debate and several other major events happening near downtown Atlanta are expected to cause increased traffic, road closures, and heavy police presence throughout the day. Protests are also anticipated near the debate site.
The debate will begin at 9 p.m. on Thursday. 11Alive will stream it on our website and YouTube channel, and it can also be viewed on CNN.