The stage is set for the Sept. 10 presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, but controversy over the rules is taking center stage.

ABC News has confirmed the debate will feature muted microphones, rejecting Harris's sudden bid to change the rules, as Breitbart reports.

ABC News announced on Thursday that the highly anticipated debate in Philadelphia will adhere to the rules established earlier in the campaign season.

One of the most notable rules is the decision to mute microphones, allowing only the speaking candidate to be heard during their allotted time. This rule was initially agreed upon when President Joe Biden was still in the race, as reported by CNN on June 15.

Harris Campaign's Effort to Change Debate Rules

In a surprising move, the Harris campaign made a last-minute effort to alter these rules, advocating for unmuted microphones. According to a source close to the negotiations, the campaign aimed to avoid the perception of "word salads" and effectively manage potential interruptions from Trump.

The push to change the debate format was also seen as part of a broader strategy by the Harris team to control media narratives. With the third anniversary of the Biden-Harris administration's controversial Afghan withdrawal approaching, the campaign appeared keen to divert media attention away from potential negative coverage related to that event.

In addition to seeking unmuted microphones, the Harris campaign reportedly wanted the option to withdraw from the debate entirely if a CNN interview with Harris on Thursday went poorly. This tactic was viewed as a safety net to avoid any unfavorable outcomes from the debate itself.

Debate Rules Agreement and Pushback

Both the Harris and Trump campaigns received the finalized debate rules from ABC News last week, confirming their acceptance to proceed under the established conditions. However, the Harris campaign's push to revise these rules began on Sunday, prompting them to request changes from ABC News and other networks. The request was promptly opposed by Trump on Tuesday.

The negotiations continued through Wednesday, with the Harris campaign still disputing the rules regarding muted microphones. Despite these efforts, ABC News maintained its stance, refusing to alter the agreed-upon format.

A person familiar with Harris’s negotiation tactics indicated that the vice president was ready to engage with Trump directly if he attempted to interrupt her. The source noted that Harris's team believed Trump's unpredictable behavior could lead to "intemperate outbursts," which they wanted viewers to witness unfiltered.

Trump's Reaction to Debate Format Dispute

Former President Trump responded to the debate rule controversy with a statement highlighting his willingness to participate under the agreed conditions. "I have reached an agreement with the Radical Left Democrats for a Debate with Comrade Kamala Harris," Trump stated. "It will be Broadcast Live on ABC FAKE NEWS, by far the nastiest and most unfair newscaster in the business, on Tuesday, September 10th, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania."

Trump's camp, meanwhile, appeared unfazed by Harris's attempts to change the rules. A top Trump ally told Breitbart News that the Harris campaign would either accept the debate terms or risk a more significant loss by backing out if the CNN interview went poorly.

Muted Microphones Rule Remains

With the debate just days away, it seems clear that the rule regarding muted microphones will remain in place. ABC News has remained firm in its decision, indicating no intention to adjust the debate's format despite the Harris campaign's continued pushback.

The initial decision to implement muted microphones was made to ensure a more orderly and focused debate environment. By limiting each candidate's speaking time and preventing interruptions, the rule aims to provide viewers with a clearer understanding of each candidate's platform and policies.

As the debate approaches, both campaigns are preparing for what is expected to be a heated exchange. With microphones muted except during their speaking time, the candidates will need to carefully manage their words and timing to make their points effectively.

Implications for the Harris Campaign

For the Harris campaign, the decision to challenge the debate rules could have significant implications. On the one hand, it demonstrates a proactive approach to managing media narratives and avoiding potential pitfalls. On the other hand, the campaign's failure to secure the desired changes may reflect a missed opportunity to shape the debate's dynamics more favorably.

As the debate date nears, all eyes will be on Philadelphia, where Harris and Trump will face off in a setting shaped by rules agreed upon months ago. With ABC News standing firm on its decision to mute microphones, the candidates must adapt to the debate format as it stands.

Whether the Harris campaign's strategy to challenge the rules will pay off remains to be seen. What is certain is that the debate will provide a crucial platform for both candidates to present their visions for the future, with every word carrying weight in an election year that has already seen its share of surprises.