Sanders warns: Debate is not ‘entertainment show’

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) warned viewers and the media not to treat Monday’s presidential debate as “an entertainment show,” in an interview with CNN a few hours before the first debate of the general election got started.

{mosads}The former Democratic presidential candidate argued that the debate should be used as an opportunity to draw contrasts between GOP nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

“I think what we have to do focus on the issues and not see tonight as an entertainment show,” Sanders told CNN.

“My hope is that we can focus tonight and in the future in the differences in opinions between the two candidates,” he continued. “When people see that, I think most people will perceive that Clinton is the superior candidate.”

Offering advice to Clinton ahead of the debate, Sanders, who ended his bid this summer and is now stumping for her, suggested that the former secretary of State stay on track addressing issues like raising the minimum wage and pay equity.

“She understands that she’s going up against an entertainer,” Sanders said, adding that she needs to “focus on the real issues.” 

Trump and Clinton will square off in their first debate at 9 p.m. ET, a high-profile clash that is expected to shatter TV record with an estimated audience of 100 million viewers.

They will also participate in two other presidential debates in October.

—Updated 8:20 p.m.