WASHINGTON—The most telling moments in presidential debates often come out of the blue—an offhand remark or unrehearsed gesture that helps to reveal the essence of a candidate who’s already been poked, prodded and inspected for years.
Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have competing missions heading into Monday night’s leadoff debate of the general election campaign: Hers to overcome the trust questions that have bedeviled her for decades. His to convince voters that he has the good judgment and restraint required of a president.
Plenty of subtexts will play out as well over 90 minutes of must-see TV before an estimated audience of 75 million or more viewers—an outsized share of them disenchanted with both candidates.
Some things to watch for Monday night:
Clinton Vs. International Man of Mystery
Just who will show up to debate Clinton? Will it be the say-anything Trump who roiled the primary debates by dishing out a stream of insults and provocations? Or the rein-it-in Trump who’s been trying to demonstrate of late that he has the maturity and measured temperament to be president? One possible clue: Watch to see whether Trump trots out the “crooked Hillary” nickname or puts it on ice for 90 minutes.
Take a Deep Breath
Expect Clinton to try to goad Trump into losing control, perhaps by questioning the size of his wealth and the success of his businesses or by highlighting his past incendiary statements about minorities, women and others. Trump is promising to “stay cool.” But 90 minutes could be a long time for the master of improv and theatrics to hew to a script.
