The campaign of former US President Donald Trump has drawn attention this week after unexpectedly withdrawing from a planned interview with CBS’ “60 Minutes.” Vice President Kamala Harris, however, confirmed her participation in the interview, which was part of the network’s pre-election special featuring both Republican and Democratic presidential contenders.
CBS’ news segment, “60 Minutes,” which has been offering interview opportunities to both major party candidates during the election season for over half a century, confirmed that the Trump campaign initially agreed to an interview with correspondent Scott Pelley. However, the campaign later backed out of its commitment. CBS has kept their invitation to Trump open for a future “60 Minutes” appearance, despite his reversal.
Trump’s campaign spokesperson, Steven Cheung, challenged CBS’ version of events, stating, “They begged for an interview, and despite initial discussions, nothing was ever scheduled or locked in.” He also contended that CBS’ insistence on live fact-checking during the interview was “unprecedented” and influenced the decision to withdraw.
The campaign’s relationship with the news program has seen prior strains. In 2020, Trump terminated an interview with “60 Minutes” correspondent Lesley Stahl prematurely due to dissatisfaction with her line of questioning. Similarly, Trump withdrew from a subsequent interview scheduled during the same time, citing his displeasure with the probing nature of the questions.
In response to this development, the Harris campaign was quick to respond. David Plouffe, a senior advisor, criticized Trump on “X” for his apparent aversion to both the debate stage and “60 Minutes.” He also suggested that Trump’s recent inflammatory comments about Harris at rallies further signaled his reluctance to face challenging situations.
The upcoming election special, scheduled to air on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 8 p.m. ET, is one of the final opportunities for voters to view both candidates in a substantial broadcast setting. With Trump’s withdrawal, only Harris is set to be interviewed, with prime-time viewers tuning in to her discussion with correspondent Bill Whitaker. While the Trump campaign has not entirely ruled out future appearances, they have yet to agree to a second debate, despite the Harris campaign’s call for another round.
The issue of live fact-checking has become a significant sticking point in the dispute. Cheung underscored that CBS’ insistence on this measure was a dealbreaker for the Trump campaign. Sources with knowledge of the planned interview divulged that it was supposed to take place at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, and then continue at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. CBS has yet to comment on these specifics.
Despite the hiccup, CBS confirmed that the election special will go ahead as scheduled, spotlighting Harris’s interview and her campaign activities. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris’s running mate, is also slated to appear.
