Pence, Harris gear up for VP debate

Amid Covid-19 fears, a plexiglass will be installed between US Vice President Mike Pence and Kamala Harris, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden's running mate, during their first debate scheduled to take place on Wednesday in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Commission on Presidential Debates on Monday approved plans for the plexiglass installation as a barrier between Pence and Harris, as well as moderator Susan Page, Politico news reported.

The plans were supported by the Cleveland Clinic, which is helping to set health protocols for the forums amid the pandemic.

The Commission has also decided to move the two candidates seats from seven feet to 13 feet apart.

Meanwhile, this will be for the first time in the American history that an Indian origin person will be taking up the podium for a vice presidential debate.

Political analysts believe that an aggressive Harris, 55, will easily prevail over Pence, 61, during the only vice-presidential debate and help her running mate Joe Biden, 77, to widen his lead over Trump, 74.

Biden, in the last few days, has widened his lead over Trump by double digit. However, the Trump Campaign believes that Pence could come out with a stellar performance during the debate.

The debate gains added significance, given the COVID19 infecting Trump, triggering speculations that Pence may be taking over the reigns of the country temporarily.

Also, many believe that Harris will be the real force in a Biden administration.

Both Pence and Harris has said that they are well prepared for the debate, which would be moderated by journalist Susan Page, Washington Bureau Chief, USA Today.

"The debates are a crucial part of making our democracy work and I am honored to participate," Page said in a statement.