Hillary Clinton press secretary Brian Fallon led many journalists and political observers to speculate the campaign is trying to lower expectations for Clinton's performances. | Getty Clinton spokesman: Trump is 'formidable debate foe'

The Hillary Clinton campaign on Saturday labeled Donald Trump a "formidable debate foe" who "thrashed his rivals in GOP debates."

With about a month to go until the first presidential debate, the tweet from Clinton press secretary Brian Fallon led many journalists and political observers to speculate on social media that the campaign is trying to lower expectations for the Democratic nominee's performances.


"For all his lack of substance, Trump's showmanship, as ex-TV star, makes him a formidable debate foe. He thrashed his rivals in GOP debates," Fallon wrote.

The first debate is on Sept. 26 at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. Moderators have yet to be announced.

Trump has said he wants to have three debates with Clinton, but he has not fully committed to the schedule, saying he has yet to see the conditions.

For all his lack of substance, Trump's showmanship, as ex-TV star, makes him a formidable debate foe. He thrashed his rivals in GOP debates — Brian Fallon (@brianefallon) August 27, 2016