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The first presidential debate is tonight. Here's how to watch on TV or streaming

Kate Kealey   Des Moines Register

If it feels early, that's because it is: The first debate of the 2024 presidential election against President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take place on Thursday.

In mid-May, the Democratic and Republican front runners agreed to take part in a debate hosted by CNN, departing from the traditional debate procedure. The nominees are not participating in debates facilitated by the Commission on Presidential Debates.

CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the in-studio debate, with several networks planning to provide commentary before and after the big production. 

This year, there will be no live audience. So how can you watch the debate from your TV, laptop, tablet or phone?

When is the first presidential debate?

The upcoming presidential debate will begin at 8 p.m. Central time on Thursday, June 27. This is the earliest debate in U.S. history, which typically started in September or October, according to CNN.

How can I watch the presidential debate?

CNN will broadcast the debate on its cable channel. Other news channels will broadcast pre-debate commentary prior to the showing a simulcast of the CNN debate. Here are some of the broadcast networks that will air the debate live:

  • CNN
  • Fox News
  • ABC News
  • CBS News
  • NBC News

Can I watch the debate if I don't have cable?

Yes. A ‘CNN Presidential Debate’ Simulcast will be available on the Des Moines Register's website and on the Paste BN channel on YouTube.

If you have popular streaming apps, you can also find coverage there:

  • Debate host CNN will provide its coverage on Max.
  • ABC News will offer its coverage on Hulu.
  • MSNBC coverage is available via Peacock.

When is the next presidential debate?

Biden and Trump also agreed to a debate hosted by ABC News on Sept. 10. The Commission on Presidential Debates planned to host its first debate on Sept. 16.

Reporting contributed by Sarah Gleason of Paste BN.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

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