The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) has approved new changes for the upcoming debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Democratic Vice Presidential nominee Kamala Harris.
Politico first reported on Monday that plexiglass would be used to separate to Pence and Harris during the debate as concerns about the spread of COVID-19 moved back to the forefront of the conversation after President Donald Trump tested positive for the virus.
Pence and Harris have tested negative for the virus so far; however, there have been efforts to add more safety protocols. On top of the plexiglass, the CPD said it had agreed to have Pence and Harris sit 13 feet apart instead of seven feet.
Katie Miller, a Pence spokeswoman, told Politico, “If Sen. Harris wants to use a fortress around herself, have at it.”
Earlier on Monday, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden was asked what kind of safety protocols he would like to see for future debates, he said, “If scientists say that it’s safe… then I think that’s fine.”
“I’ll do whatever the experts say is appropriate for me to do,” he added.
Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to President Trump leaving Walter Reed last night to greet his supporters?"
— The Hill (@thehill) October 5, 2020
Joe Biden: "I'm reluctant to comment on anything the President's health or what he's doing or not doing." https://t.co/FygNjSsBh6 pic.twitter.com/PpPn8k6D65
When asked specifically if he would support having plexiglass installed ahead of the debate, Biden said, “I’m not an expert on it, but I think we should be very cautious.”
Pence and Harris are scheduled to face off on Oct. 7, and the next presidential debate is scheduled for Oct. 15.