The upcoming presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump has stirred quite the pot, huh? Set to take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia this Tuesday, the rules laid out have sparked controversy, and not just any old controversy—this is the kind that makes you wonder, who’s really pulling the strings?

No Notes, No Mercy

First things first, the candidates won’t be allowed pre-written notes. Sounds fair, right? But dig a little deeper. In recent years, debates have seen candidates from both sides relying on notes. Suddenly changing this tradition raises a big red flag. Could it be that the organizers want to catch Harris off-guard, or is it a move to make Trump look unprepared? Either way, ain’t that obvious someone’s trying to tilt the scale?

Mute Button Power Play

Now, let’s talk about those muted microphones. Each candidate will have the floor to themselves while the other’s mic is silenced. This might sound like a good idea after the chaotic shout-fests of past debates, but think about it: who does this really benefit? If Harris is known for her prosecutorial polish, giving her uninterrupted airtime could be a strategic move to boost her image—smooth and unruffled. Meanwhile, Trump, with his knack for powerful comebacks, might find himself reined in. Last debate, 78% of respondents felt the muting was used unevenly—guess who got more airtime?

Shying Away from Tough Questions?

It’s been revealed that Harris turned down a debate hosted by Fox News, where tough questions were guaranteed. Instead, the stage will be set by ABC, known for its softer, more forgiving questions to Democratic candidates. By avoiding a Fox News debate, Harris can dodge the hard-hitting inquiries about policies and past decisions that many believe have led to increased taxes and a 20% rise in unemployment under her watch. This maneuver screams avoidance. Why so shy, unless there’s something to hide?

In a nutshell, these debate rules seem to be more than just guidelines—they appear to be a crafted narrative control. And if you’re not asking “who benefits?” you’re not paying enough attention. This debate could very well be less about finding the best candidate and more about presenting the chosen one in the best possible light.

Stay tuned, folks. This Tuesday might just tell us more about who’s running the show than who’s running for office.