Key questions ahead of the debate are whether Biden can perform well against Trump's verbal attacks, and if Trump can stay disciplined and refrain from personal insults. Biden will need to show energy to counter the perception that his age makes him unable to handle a debate. In contrast, Trump needs to offer an optimistic vision and focus on policy over conspiracy theories. Both candidates have criminal records that could be exploited - Trump was recently convicted of felony charges while Biden's son Hunter was also convicted. Topics of focus will likely be abortion given Trump's role in overturning Roe v Wade, and immigration as Biden struggles with border crossings.