In an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, former President Donald Trump expressed his eagerness to participate in presidential debates against President Joe Biden, even if they are sponsored by the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates. Trump, who previously skipped all primary debates citing his lead in the polls, vowed to participate in multiple debates and even criticized the commission, which he and fellow Republicans have long denounced as corrupt.

During the interview, Trump stated, "Oh will I look forward to that. How about 10 debates?" He further added, "I would do 20 debates, even if it was organized by them. I would do as many debates as they want. I'd do a debate every night with this guy." This willingness comes despite the Republican National Committee's unanimous decision in April 2022 to withdraw from the commission's events, accusing them of bias.

The nonprofit Commission on Presidential Debates, established in 1987, is responsible for organizing the general election presidential and vice-presidential debates. They outline the rules, select the locations, dates, and moderators for these crucial events. As of now, the commission has scheduled three presidential debates and one vice-presidential debate to be held between September 16 and October 9, 2024.

While Trump has been leading in public polls across early-voting states, he expressed openness to participating in a Republican primary debate if it comes down to just him and a single rival after the New Hampshire primary. Reports indicate that Nikki Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, has been gaining ground, particularly in New Hampshire. Trump confirmed his willingness to debate any close rival, saying, "Yeah, I would, if it was very close, I would debate that Republican."

Regarding Biden's participation in the general election debates, his campaign has not yet committed. Quentin Fulks, Biden's top deputy campaign manager, mentioned earlier this month that they would consider the schedule released by the Commission on Presidential Debates, but their current focus is on building a competitive campaign and infrastructure for 2024.

It is worth noting that Trump bypassed the second 2020 debate after it was decided to be held virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic. Throughout his tenure as president, Trump accused the commission of unfair treatment and faced criticism from national Democrats who claimed that the commission failed to enforce rules when it came to Trump.

The Biden campaign, the Commission on Presidential Debates, and the Republican National Committee have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding Trump's remarks on the debates.