This year's presidential election has largely put the future of political debates into question. During the primary races, neither Joe Biden nor Donald Trump debated either of their political opponents.

Both outright refused, despite calls for them to get on a stage and despite the tradition of primary contenders debating one another so voters can get a clear look at their options.

Americans on both sides of the aisle have criticized the lack of debates. Some even argue that debating one's opponents should be a prerequisite for seeking public office. Many folks believe there's a certain arrogance in expecting people's votes, yet not being willing to openly discuss the issues with your fellow opponents.

Going into the general election, many members of the American media seem to hold this view. A series of news organizations have hence come together, calling on Biden and Trump to agree to debate one another before Election Day.

Here's what media outlets expect from the two presidential contenders

Over the weekend, CNN, the Associated Press, and ten other news platforms signed a statement, urging Biden and Trump to get on a stage. In doing so, these organizations cited the high stakes of this year's White House race, along with the "rich tradition" of presidential candidates debating each other.

All 12 news outlets furthermore declared there can be "no substitute" for the de facto nominees of the GOP and Democrat Party showing up to discuss the issues.

During the Republican primary, Trump infamously held town hall events as then-rivals Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, and others debated in hopes of winning over Republican voters. Biden, during the Democratic primary, also repeatedly ignored debate requests from then-opponent Dean Phillips.

Apparently, top US media outlets are hoping to avoid a repeat of this in the general election.

Will Trump and Biden debate each other in 2024?

Despite refusing to debate his fellow Republicans, Trump has aggressively gone after Biden, demanding a one-on-one showdown. The president, to this end, claims that whether or not he agrees to share a stage with Trump depends upon the latter's personal conduct.

At this rate, what comes next remains very much up in the air.