Former President Donald Trump has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging incumbent President Joe Biden to a debate as the 2024 presidential race kicks into high gear. This comes after Trump's decision to skip debates with his Republican primary opponents, opting instead to directly engage with Biden in what promises to be a heated showdown for the White House.

In a statement posted on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump emphasized the importance of addressing critical issues facing the nation. "It is important, for the Good of our Country, that Joe Biden and I Debate Issues that are so vital to America, and the American People," Trump asserted, adding, "Therefore, I am calling for Debates, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, ANYPLACE!"

Trump's call for debates comes on the heels of Nikki Haley, his final Republican rival, dropping out of the race, signaling the beginning of what is projected to be the longest general presidential election in recent history. Despite criticism from opponents like Chris Christie, who labeled him a "chicken" for avoiding primary debates, Trump appears eager to engage directly with Biden.

The Biden campaign has yet to respond to Trump's challenge.

With Biden scheduled to deliver his final State of the Union address, Trump has intensified his attacks on the president, questioning his mental acuity and ridiculing him for verbal slip-ups and physical stumbles. However, Trump has also faced his share of public gaffes, including a recent speech where he confused Haley with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Meanwhile, the non-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates has already slated dates for three debates in September and October, along with a single debate for the vice-presidential candidates. As the nation braces for a contentious election season, all eyes are on whether Biden will accept Trump's challenge and how this will shape the trajectory of the 2024 race for the White House.

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