Key takeaways from Kamala Harris-Donald Trump presidential debate
The first and potentially only debate between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump took place on Tuesday (local time). The event, which could significantly influence the upcoming November 5 election in the United States, saw both candidates engaging in heated exchanges. Here are some key takeaways from the debate:
Harris's strategy to rile Trump
Harris began the debate by attempting to provoke Trump, a strategy her campaign had previously hinted at. She encouraged viewers to attend a Trump rally, predicting that attendees would leave out of boredom and exhaustion due to his bizarre statements. In response, Trump defended the size and quality of his rallies and accused Harris of bussing in attendees to hers.
Trump's controversial immigration claims
During the debate, Trump made an unsubstantiated claim that immigrants in Springfield, Ohio were killing and eating people's pets. This claim has been circulating on social media and was amplified by his running mate, JD Vance. However, city officials in Springfield have refuted these reports as untrue. Harris responded to Trump's comments with laughter, calling them "extreme."
Harris puts Trump on defensive over past actions
As a former California prosecutor, Harris aimed to hold Trump accountable for his past actions, particularly his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. She argued that "we cannot afford to have a president of the United States who attempts as he did in the past to upend the will of the voters in a free and fair election." Meanwhile, Trump insisted he "had nothing to do with" the January 6, 2021 siege of US Capitol.
Harris and Trump's economic policy clash
The debate also saw Harris and Trump clashing over economic policies. While Harris detailed her plans for substantial tax credits for small start-ups, Trump focused on tariffs to protect the American economy from unfair foreign competition. Despite trailing behind Trump in voter trust on this issue, Harris managed to put him on the defensive with her opening comments.
Heated exchange over abortion rights
The debate also touched on the contentious issue of abortion rights, with both candidates expressing divergent views. Trump defended the US Supreme Court's 2022 ruling that ended constitutional protection for abortions, while Harris pledged to codify Roe v. Wade into law and protect women's reproductive rights. This topic is particularly significant as polls indicate Harris has an advantage over Trump on this issue.
