The first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris occurred on Tuesday, moderated by ABC News.
The debate lasted one hour and 45 minutes, with both candidates clashing on key issues like abortion rights, immigration, and leadership styles.Kamala Harris adopted a strategy to bait Trump, consistently provoking him with remarks designed to throw him off balance.
She called him “weak” and “wrong,” mocked his 2020 electoral defeat, and referred to him as a “disgrace” according to military leaders.
Harris portrayed Trump as self-absorbed, contrasting her focus on middle-class Americans with his defense of billionaires and big corporations.
Trump responded to Harris with visible agitation, often deviating into rants and making numerous false claims.
He repeatedly debunked conspiracy theories, such as migrants eating pets and Democrats supporting post-birth abortions.
Despite being fact-checked during the debate, Trump doubled down on his assertions, including his claim that the 2020 election was stolen.
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Harris landed several blows, particularly on Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, abortion rights, and race.
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Trump repeatedly sought to turn the conversation to the economy and immigration, repeating false stories about migrants stealing and eating people’s pets.
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The debate highlighted the sharp contrasts between their leadership styles and visions for the country.
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Harris’ composed performance saw her gain momentum, while Trump’s repetition of false claims and refusal to concede on key issues may have reinforced existing concerns about his candidacy.
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Harris mocked Trump for his rally crowds’ size and entertainment value, which visibly upset him.
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Trump defended his rally numbers, despite attempts by moderators to steer the debate back to policy.
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Harris addressed voters directly into the camera, making promises including cutting the cost of living and restoring abortion rights.
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Trump focused on the moderators throughout the debate, which took place without a live studio audience.
According to CNN’s Poll of Polls, Harris and Trump were closely matched in support at 49% and 48%, respectively, before the debate.
The debate’s impact on polling remains to be seen.
