(VOVWORLD) - President Donald Trump added more turbulence to the U.S. presidential race by refusing to participate in next Thursday’s debate with Democratic rival Joe Biden after it was changed to a virtual event to guard against the spread of COVID-19, prompting Biden to book a solo televised town hall-style event instead.
 The first debate between Trump and Biden turns into insults and interruptions. (Photo: Getty image) |
Mr. Trump, who was hospitalized for three days after disclosing last Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus, blasted the format change announced by the nonpartisan commission in charge of the debates and expressed concern that his microphone could be cut off.
President Trump, still receiving COVID-19 treatment, also said he wanted to resume campaign rallies.
The Commission on Presidential Debates announced on Thursday morning it planned to host the upcoming debate - planned as a town hall-style conversation - virtually rather than in-person in Miami, a move both campaigns said they were not consulted on.