The 2024 U.S. presidential campaign has seen President Joe Biden’s reelection team adopt the nickname “Sleepy Don” for their opponent, former President Donald Trump, in response to reports of Trump dozing off during a courtroom appearance. This incident occurred during jury selection at Trump’s criminal trial concerning hush money payments, a historic event as it marks the first criminal trial against a sitting or former US president. Trump, who is facing 34 counts of falsifying business records linked to payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels, has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Amidst this backdrop, U.S. media is advocating for Biden and Trump to participate in televised debates ahead of the November presidential election. Major networks argue that debates are a crucial part of the democratic process. The Commission on Presidential Debates has scheduled three presidential debates and one vice-presidential debate, but participation from the candidates remains uncertain.

At Trump’s ongoing trial in New York, jury selection has proven challenging due to potential biases among jurors, with 60 out of 96 candidates excused for impartiality concerns. The trial is drawing significant public and media attention, complicating the selection of a fair jury and intensifying the national spotlight on the proceedings.