In anticipation of the highly anticipated CNN presidential debate, the race between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden remains tight, with no clear leader emerging. According to the latest CNN Poll of Polls, nationwide support stands at 49% for Trump and 47% for Biden, reflecting a similar deadlock to previous polling results.

One of the key issues in focus is gun control. President Biden, who signed comprehensive gun safety legislation earlier this year, has expressed his desire for further action. In his State of the Union address, he demanded a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as the implementation of universal background checks.

However, Biden has faced challenges in gaining support from Congress for his proposed measures. On the other hand, Donald Trump has vowed to undo the work done by Biden regarding gun control. Speaking at the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action last April, Trump pledged to overturn Biden's executive order targeting the firearms industry and emphasized his commitment to protecting Second Amendment rights.

The White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) has expressed concern over CNN's decision not to include a White House print pool reporter inside the studio during the debate. WHCA President Kelly O'Donnell wrote in a statement that the presence of a pool reporter offers valuable context and insight beyond what is captured by television cameras. CNN has yet to comment on the request.

As the debate approaches, first lady Jill Biden made a stop at a Biden campaign field office in Virginia Beach. Addressing supporters, she framed the debate as a choice between strong and steady leadership, represented by President Biden, and what she termed as "chaos and corruption" under Trump's administration. Jill Biden urged her supporters to engage with their own networks and spread the message about Joe Biden's vision for America.

Notably, she highlighted Biden's commitment to lifting up Americans throughout his career, contrasting it with what she described as a self-centered approach taken by Trump. The first lady emphasized the importance of character in the upcoming election and encouraged her supporters to listen not only to Joe Biden's words but also to his heart.

With the debate set to be held in a closed studio set at CNN's Atlanta headquarters and without an audience, the stakes are high for both candidates. The outcome of the debate may play a significant role in influencing the trajectory of the race, as the current polling indicates a neck-and-neck competition between Trump and Biden.