Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump faced off on Tuesday in their first, and possibly only, presidential debate, a critical event that could significantly influence the upcoming November 5th election. With polls indicating a tight race, this debate was a high-stakes encounter.
Riling her rival
Harris strategically aimed to unsettle Trump, as her campaign had prefigured. She encouraged viewers to attend a Trump rally, where she claimed he’d say outlandish things like “windmills cause cancer,” a remark Trump has indeed made. She also suggested attendees would leave his rallies exhausted and bored.
Trump, known for his pride in the size and enthusiasm of his rally crowds, was visibly irritated. “My rallies, we have the biggest rallies, the most incredible rallies in the history of politics,” he retorted, accusing Harris of busing attendees to her events.
In a shocking claim, Trump falsely asserted that immigrants in the country illegally were killing and eating people’s pets in Springfield, Ohio—a baseless rumor amplified by his vice-presidential running mate, JD Vance. The city officials have debunked these reports, a fact pointed out by the ABC moderators. “Talk about extreme,” Harris responded, laughing.
Playing defense
Harris, leveraging her background as a former California prosecutor, sought to hold Trump accountable for his past actions, particularly his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. An hour into the debate, her strategy seemed effective as Trump found himself on the defensive.
When questioned about the January 6, 2021, Capitol siege, Trump insisted he “had nothing to do with that, other than they asked me to make a speech.” He also maintained that he had won the 2020 election. Harris used these moments to argue for moving past Trump’s presidency.
“Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people, so let’s be clear about that,” Harris remarked, emphasizing the need for a president who respects the will of the voters. She further jibed at Trump, suggesting world leaders were “laughing” at him, echoing Trump’s own rhetoric about President Joe Biden.
Trump erupted, claiming Harris had received “no votes” for the Democratic nomination and suggesting she replaced Biden in a coup. “He hates her,” Trump said of Biden. “He can’t stand her.” These exchanges bolstered Harris’ argument that Trump lacks the “temperament” to be president.
A disarming handshake
Before the debate, there was speculation about how Harris and Trump, who had never met, would greet each other. Harris settled the matter decisively by walking over to Trump, extending her hand, and introducing herself as “Kamala Harris.” This disarming gesture set the tone for the debate.
Sparring on the economy
In the debate’s opening minutes, the candidates clashed on the economy, a top concern for voters. Harris outlined her recent economic policies, including a significant tax credit for small start-ups. Trump focused on tariffs, pledging to shield the American economy from unfair foreign competition.
While both candidates landed their blows, Harris managed to speak first on an issue where she lags behind Trump in voter trust, forcing him to play defense. “She doesn’t have a plan,” Trump retorted. “It’s like Run, Spot, Run.”
A Schism on abortion
The debate took a contentious turn on the topic of abortion. Trump defended the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that ended constitutional protection for abortion, inaccurately claiming it was a bipartisan desire. Harris, visibly outraged, countered by highlighting the restrictive bans in several states, questioning, “This is what people wanted?”
Trump evaded a direct answer on whether he would veto a federal abortion ban, insisting it would never occur without providing a definitive stance.
‘Weaponized’ justice
In a heated exchange, both candidates accused each other of “weaponizing” the Justice Department. Trump claimed the indictments against him were a conspiracy by Harris and Biden, a claim lacking evidence. Harris countered by noting Trump’s promises to prosecute his enemies if re-elected, further underlining the existential stakes both candidates see in this election.
“Understand this is someone who has openly said he would terminate, I’m quoting, terminate the Constitution,” Harris asserted.
This debate underscored the deep divisions and high stakes in the upcoming election, with both candidates portraying their opponent as a threat to democracy itself.