Power & Politics: Harris-Trump first debate preview; education in New York for the new school year
This weekend's guests include Pace University clinical assistant professor George Picoulas and White Plains Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Ricca.
More Stories
Harris-Trump Debate
For the first and possibly only time this election cycle, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will share a debate stage.
The debate is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 10 in Philadelphia.
It's a major political milestone after President Joe Biden's rough debate in June ultimately led to his ouster from the race.
Harris' campaign reluctantly agreed to use the same rules from the Biden-Trump debate over the summer that included muting microphones when the other candidate is responding to a question. Harris' team sought to have the mics on the entire time, but Trump's campaign suggested he might back out if that wasn't in place.
Pace University clinical assistant professor George Picoulas, who has a background in political campaigns, said both candidates have a lot to gain particularly among voters who only really start paying attention to the race after Labor Day.
Picoulas believes Harris must come to the table presenting herself as someone ready to lead the nation while Trump needs to focus on policy instead of personal attacks.
"Campaigns at this stage are about connections, trying to appeal to your sensitivities, to your beliefs, to your interests, and say, 'Listen, vote for me, vote for my party because I represent your interests,'" Picoulas said.
The debate will take place eight weeks before Election Day.
Back to School
Students across New York state returned to the classroom this week.
While it might be a new school year, there are some reoccurring issues schools are addressing.
This includes the lingering mental health effects on students from the COVID-19 pandemic, school safety, funding and teacher shortages.
White Plains Superintendent of Schools Joseph Ricca, Ed.D. said districts like his are working diligently from day one to put students' needs first.
"This is an amazing profession," he said. "We have an opportunity to every single day bring a positive moment into the life of a child or to help a family out. It's a blessing to be able to do it."
