His war is not with the commission, his war is not even with Biden, his war is for the hearts of the American voters. How does this advance that goal?
Even summoning cheers from us conservatives, how does it advance his case with the whole voting demographic? Is it supposed to increase conservative turnout?
Well he is not by nature a politician so not sure he makes those calculations you’ve questioned. Perhaps he stands on principle.
You might understand Trump a bit better if you read it (if that’s a goal). I’ve admired the depth of your posts and I’m sure you’ll find it a very quick, easy read.
Let’s begin with the premise that Trump wants a live debate.
Someone throws a virtual debate on the table as an offer, in public, without discussing it with him.
Trump refuses.
Are they negotiating? What do you think the next step will be?
” his war is for the hearts of the American voters. How does this advance that goal?”
Because the average person isn’t so dumb and would roll their eyes at the obvious problems of this virtual debate. Trump will have his mic and camera cut off anytime he is not directly given a 2 minute window to answer a question. Biden will have an Indy pit crew of handlers feeding him answers. No Trump observers will be allowed in Biden’s location. And last, the debate commission announced this without any coordination with the Trump campaign. And of course, we all know ALL of the regular guy questioners are dem party activists.
People will respect Trump for not getting bulldozed. Meek acquiescence would make people see him as weak. Better to be respected than liked.