Clinton Apparently Got Debate Handshake Protocol Changed

Campaign apparently wants to play it safe
By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 19, 2016 12:44 PM CDT
Bill Clinton May Not Be Shaking Hands Tonight
Melania Trump and Ivanka Trump meet with former President Bill Clinton, husband of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton before the beginning of the second presidential debate at Washington University, Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016, in St. Louis.   (AP Photo/ Evan Vucci)

Traditionally, the spouses and family members of the two presidential candidates shake hands as they enter the debates and cross each other's paths on their way to their seats. That could change tonight: Two sources tell the New York Times that after the last debate, when Donald Trump attempted to get Bill Clinton's sexual assault accusers seated in the family area so that Clinton would be forced to shake their hands, Hillary Clinton's campaign is seeking to change the handshake protocol at Wednesday's debate. Specifically, spouses will enter the debate hall closer to their seats so they don't have to cross the room (and each other), thus avoiding any similar plans that might be in the works. The sources say the Clinton camp apparently got approval for the new protocol, but the Times notes that things could change again by the time the debate actually happens if both campaigns agree. (More presidential debate stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X