What are key questions for the Biden-Trump CNN debate?

The CNN debate between President Biden and former President Donald Trump is an opportunity for more than just rehearsed answers and soundbites we’ve heard before.

Americans are concerned about the state of the country, from the economy to uncontrolled immigration, the decline of shared moral values, and the shifting cultural norms.

Getting honest answers from politicians is always a challenging task. Here are some questions that should be asked during the debate:

Recent polls show that immigration, the economy, and crime are the top concerns for voters. It is clear that the border is not secure.

According to The Hill, there were about 10.2 million illegal immigrants in the U.S. in 2020, and another 10 million have entered during Biden’s presidency.

Many of these immigrants are gang members, criminals, and some have terrorist ties. There have been cases where innocent Americans have been murdered by undocumented immigrants.

During his campaign, President Biden claimed he couldn’t act on the border without Congress. However, he has since issued executive orders limiting asylum access for migrants crossing the border unlawfully, which has led to a decrease in border apprehensions.

Data from US Customs and Border Protection shows a 25% decrease in daily encounters between ports of entry. However, the flow of drugs is still a concern. What would President Biden do differently in a second term to address the border?

President Biden and former President Obama have vowed to “fundamentally transform America.” Does this mean allowing undocumented immigrants to become citizens and potentially shifting the political landscape?

Former President Trump initially proposed deporting millions of undocumented migrants but seems to have modified his stance. What specific actions would he take on this issue?

With the national debt projected to reach $56 trillion by 2034, how would President Biden protect current benefit recipients while reforming programs to ensure their sustainability for future generations?

Former President Trump added $8 trillion to the national debt during his term. What steps would he take to reduce spending and address the debt?

With concerns about rising crime rates and lenient prosecutors, would President Biden endorse a tougher approach on crime and replacing prosecutors?

Former President Trump, why do you insult fellow citizens while speaking favorably about foreign leaders like Putin, Kim Jong Un, and Xi Jinping?

Former President Trump, on what basis do you claim that certain international conflicts would not have occurred if you were still in office?

Both candidates, what would you do to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, considering the urgency of the situation?

President Biden, how do you reconcile the Democratic stance on abortion with your Catholic beliefs, and why not endorse adoption as an alternative?

Former President Trump, what steps would you take to address concerns about being a threat to democracy and would you consider pardoning yourself for any potential charges?

Both candidates, amidst the attacks, can you say something positive and substantial about your opponent?

Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, as moderators, let’s aim for fairness in the upcoming debate and address the issues at hand.

Cal Thomas’ latest book is “A Watchman in the Night: What I’ve Seen Over 50 Years Reporting on America.”