CNN's Debate Microphone Rule Could Hurt Trump

Tonight's first Presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump seems to have as much buzz as the Super Bowl with both sides of the political aisle having a ton riding on it. 

But for Trump, there could be problems ahead based on the microphone setup that CNN has concocted in its Atlanta studios where the debate will take place at 9 ET. 

Let's take a look at this microphone situation: 

CNN MICROPHONES WILL MUTE CANDIDATES

CNN has exclusive broadcasting rights to tonight's first debate that will be held in front of no live audience. Both Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, who have made no hints at their disdain for President Trump in the past via their reporting, will be the hosts.

However, in what can be likened to a broadcast gag order, the moderators will also have the ability to turn off a candidate's microphone after the allotted response time is up. CNN released a demonstration of how the microphones will work and once a candidate's microphone "green light" goes off, you can't hear ANYTHING. 

Nothing. 

Instead, you're just going to see Biden or Trump mouthing words, which I'm sure the artificial intelligence nerds are going to have a field day with deepfakes, cheapfakes and filling in words that were never spoken. 

What could possibly go wrong?! It's like CNN purposely wants to make their coverage, which some believe could make or break the network, as difficult as possible.

WHY DOES CNN'S MICROPHONE RULE HURT TRUMP?

As we all know, Trump has made some of his most famous remarks while showing a combative, confrontational side to him. Whether it would be him randomly shouting "WRONG" into the microphone or when he was hovering over Hillary Clinton looking like the lead up to a shark attack. 

CNN's microphone control will undoubtedly affect how Trump performs. 

It may also make tonight a bit lackluster. There's no doubt people will tune in, but the question is for how long, especially if it could essentially be two candidates not truly debating, but rather just going back and forth with statements. 

Hell, Trump may become so frustrated he just walks off the damn set!

DEMS AND REPS WORRIED

For the Democrats, they are hoping that an amped up, cognizant Biden can confidently present himself in lieu of what has been a series of disastrous videos that appear to show the President struggling with his mental capacity. 

Republicans will hold their breath to see how Donald Trump handles himself. Will he be an unhinged, ranting lunatic or will he focus on the hits such as the economy and illegal immigration?

More importantly, will the CNN microphones even allow it to happen?

WILL TONIGHT'S DEBATE LIVE UP TO THE EXPECTATIONS? Email me: Michael.Gunzelman@OutKick.com / Tweet me: @TheGunzShow