Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Sizzle or fizzle? A revamped format has either raised or diminished expectations for the earliest presidential debate in U.S. history.
"I really think Democrats and Republicans are really hyping today. The race has been static for a few months and I think both sides are going to come out swinging," said Jack O'Donnell of O'Donnell and Associates.
He told WBEN what he thinks both sides need to do.
"Biden needs to be energetic. He needs to be focused. He has to show that he's president and has to connect with the pain that American voters are feeling. Donald Trump, meanwhile, needs to reel it in a little. He's not at one of his rallies. He's not speaking to his base. I think the Trump camp wants him to speak to independent and moderate voters," added O'Donnell.
Ted Lina, longtime Debate Moderator at St. Joe's Collegiate Institute, remembers the 1960 debate with Nixon and Kennedy. "It was much more professional and formal back then. Today," he added, "it's gone off the rails."
Because Americans have a low opinion of both candidates, Lina said style will trump substance. "They have to come across as very presidential and professional and need to try to be more likable than they currently are."
Lina said he was surprised that the debate is on CNN with a moderator who has been very critical of former President Trump. "I think it's a big mistake not having the Presidential Debate Commission with moderators that are not biased. It's very, very difficult to keep candidates in line, especially at this level.
Which version of Biden and Trump show up Thursday night remains to be seen. O'Donnell said the test will be who is able to be the best version of themselves?