The VP declined rehearsing specific gestures for Trump debate, relying on natural expressiveness, as anonymous sources reveal prep details and strategy
Vice president Kamala Harris reportedly declined to rehearse specific mannerisms for her recent debate with former president Donald Trump, opting instead to rely on her natural expressiveness, according to a new report by the Associated Press.
This latest report is based on interviews with five people close to Harris, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe private conversations and reveal new details about how she prepared for and handled the debate.
According to the sources, Harris waved off suggestions from her staff to practice pre-planned gestures and expressions during debate preparations. “She would be fine without that kind of rehearsal”, Harris reportedly told her team.
The September 10th presidential debate at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia marked the first time Harris and Trump had met in person. It may also prove to be the only opportunity for voters to see the two candidates’ side by side, as Trump has stated he will not participate in future debates.
Harris’ team reportedly spent five days preparing in downtown Pittsburgh, recreating the debate set and enlisting Philippe Reines, a longtime aide to Hillary Clinton, to play the role of Trump. Reines, known for his meticulous impersonations, donned a dark suit, long red tie, and even orange bronzer to embody the former president.
