Following Donald Trump's skepticism about debating his Democratic rival Kamala Harris, the Democratic National Committee designed ads mocking his doubts.
The ads say, “Convicted felon is afraid to debate,” and question whether that is because of his stance on abortion. Reuters reported.
In addition, this campaign was launched on Friday and large-size ads were added to the digital homepages of all major newspapers in the country.
Meanwhile, Trump campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Trump welcomes the opportunity to compare records, but stopped short of saying the former president will debate Harris.
“President Trump has long supported states' right to make decisions about abortion. Kamala Harris and the Democrats are radically out of step with the majority of Americans in their support for abortion up to birth and even after birth,” Leavitt said.
In early June, the Republican candidate emerged victorious in his presidential debate against President Joe Biden. Both contenders agreed to a second debate on September 11.
However, the 78-year-old changed his statement after Biden dropped out of the race and endorsed Harris.
Trump said he would not debate her because she is not the official candidate and added that former President Barack Obama has not yet given his endorsement.
“I would not debate her because she is not the official candidate. Former President Barack Obama has not yet endorsed her, which is proof of the lack of support for her candidacy,” he said.
A day later, Obama endorsed Harris, who on Friday secured the delegate votes needed to secure the Democratic nomination.
According to polls, the race is tight between Harris and Trump, who had enjoyed a larger lead over Biden after the first debate.
On Friday, Trump said he did not need to debate Harris because he was leading in the polls and voters already knew where he and his Democratic rival stood on the issues.
“Well, I want to do it,” Trump said on Fox Business Network’s Mornings with Maria. “Right now I’m asking myself, ‘Why would I do a debate?’ I’m leading in the polls and everybody knows her and everyone knows me.”
In response, at a campaign rally on Tuesday, Harris urged Trump to think twice.
“I hope you'll reconsider. Meet me on the debate stage… because as the saying goes, if you've got something to say, say it to my face,” Harris said.
