Former President Donald Trump has enlisted the help of former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard as he prepares for an upcoming debate with Democratic Party nominee Kamala Harris.

Gabbard’s sharp debate skills, especially her prior attacks on Harris during the 2020 campaign, are seen as crucial to Trump’s debate preparation, prompting her recruitment to the former president's team, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Trump and Gabbard have maintained a close relationship since Gabbard left the Democratic Party in 2020. The former Hawaii lawmaker gained significant attention during the Democratic primary for her pointed critiques of Harris, which many viewed as instrumental in diminishing Harris's momentum in the race.

Trump's team has taken note of Gabbard's debate style, particularly her ability to launch effective attacks on opponents, making her a valuable asset in the upcoming debate preparations.

Gabbard’s Impact on Harris Highlighted

During the 2020 Democratic primary, Gabbard made headlines for her relentless criticism of Harris, which included a memorable debate moment in which she accused Harris of various misdeeds during her tenure as California’s attorney general.

Gabbard's remarks resonated with many viewers, and her debate performance is now being cited as a key reason for her inclusion in Trump's preparation efforts.

Trump’s press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed Gabbard’s presence in Florida, stating that Trump is meeting with respected policy advisers and effective communicators such as the former legislator. Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s debate preparation differs from traditional methods, noting that he does not engage in mock debates but rather focuses on policy discussion points.

Trump’s Debate Strategy Revealed

Trump’s approach to debate preparation contrasts sharply with that of President Joe Biden, who relied on mock debates and role-playing to simulate the debate environment. Biden’s aides took on the role of Trump during these sessions, but despite this extensive preparation, Biden's performance was criticized by some, and it was seen as a contributing factor to his departure from the presidential race.

In contrast, Trump’s team prefers a more fluid and discussion-based preparation. Jason Miller, a Trump adviser, noted that Trump regularly engages in tough interviews and delivers lengthy rally speeches, showcasing his stamina and resilience. According to Miller, Trump does not require traditional debate preparation, which typically involves detailed rehearsal and strategy sessions.

Gabbard’s Role in Trump’s Preparation

The inclusion of Gabbard in Trump’s debate preparations is indicative of Trump’s desire to focus on attacking Harris, a potential key opponent in future political contests. Gabbard's experience and her ability to effectively challenge Harris on the debate stage make her a strategic choice for Trump’s team.

Gabbard’s debate performance in 2020 was marked by her aggressive style and her willingness to confront Harris on issues such as criminal justice reform and her record as attorney general.

During one debate, Gabbard accused Harris of putting over 1,500 people in jail for marijuana violations and then laughing about it when questioned about her own use of the drug.

Gabbard also criticized Harris for blocking evidence that could have freed an innocent man from death row, keeping people in prison beyond their sentences for cheap labor, and supporting a cash bail system that disproportionately affected the poor.

Gabbard’s Influence on Trump’s Debate Tactics

These pointed attacks resonated with Trump’s team, who see Gabbard’s debate style as an effective tool in their preparation arsenal. Trump’s focus on policy discussion during his preparation sessions, rather than mock debates, suggests that he values substance over style, preferring to hone his arguments rather than practice delivery.

Leavitt’s statement that Trump is one of the best debaters in political history underscores the campaign’s confidence in his ability to perform well in the upcoming debate. Gabbard’s participation in these sessions is a strategic move to ensure that Trump is well-prepared to face his opponents, particularly Harris, who is likely to be a central figure in the debates.

Conclusion

In summary, former President Donald Trump has recruited former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to assist in his debate preparations, with a particular focus on her experience in challenging Kamala Harris during the 2020 Democratic primary debates.

Gabbard’s involvement in Trump’s preparation highlights the campaign’s strategy of leveraging her aggressive debate style to prepare for potential confrontations with Harris.

Trump’s unconventional approach to debate preparation, which focuses on policy discussion rather than mock debates, reflects his confidence in his debating abilities and his reliance on experienced advisers like Gabbard to refine his arguments.