The much-anticipated debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris was a critical moment in the 2024 US presidential election. As the two leading candidates for the presidency, the debate offered a chance for each to showcase their positions on key issues, as well as to challenge their opponent’s record.
Upper hand depends on perspective:
The debate between Trump and Harris was intense, with both candidates attacking each other’s records and policies. However, determining who had the upper hand depends on perspective.
For Trump’s supporters, his performance was seen as assertive and commanding. He aggressively went after Harris on topics such as the Biden administration’s foreign policy failures, including the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump’s sharp critique of Harris’s role as vice president resonated with his base, reinforcing his image as a strong leader who could correct what he framed as Democratic mismanagement.
On the other hand, Harris’s supporters viewed her as composed and steady in the face of Trump’s attacks. She highlighted her experience as vice president and prosecutor, positioning herself as the defender of Americans’ rights and freedoms. Harris’s responses to Trump’s accusations were seen as measured, and she effectively countered many of his claims, particularly on foreign policy and women’s rights.
Did Trump Dominate Kamala Like Biden?
In comparison to his debates with Joe Biden in 2020, Trump’s performance against Kamala Harris was less chaotic but still combative. During the 2020 debates, Trump frequently interrupted Biden, leading to a disorderly and often incomprehensible debate. However, this time, the debate rules enforced by the Biden campaign—no interruptions and no studio audience—ensured a more structured exchange.
Trump did not dominate Harris in the same way he tried to dominate Biden. Harris stood her ground and responded to Trump’s attacks with confidence, often reminding viewers of Trump’s controversial policies and rhetoric. In many ways, this debate was more balanced than Trump’s 2020 debates with Biden, where interruptions and personal insults took center stage.
Important Questions:
Several important questions emerged during the debate that defined the candidates’ positions on key issues:
- Foreign Policy:
Trump criticized Harris for the Biden administration’s handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, calling it “the most embarrassing moment in the history of our country.” Harris defended the withdrawal, blaming Trump for striking a weak deal with the Taliban. This exchange highlighted the candidates’ differing views on military intervention and diplomacy. - Ukraine and Russia:
Both candidates sparred over the conflict in Ukraine. Trump claimed that if he had been president, he would have prevented the war from starting, while Harris highlighted her role in consolidating Western support for Ukraine. This was a crucial moment, as it showcased the candidates’ approaches to international conflicts and alliances. - Israel-Hamas War:
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas was another focal point. Harris emphasized the need for a ceasefire and a two-state solution, while Trump claimed the war would never have started under his presidency. This discussion revealed their contrasting approaches to Middle Eastern policy. - Women’s Rights:
Harris vowed to protect the rights of women, particularly their right to make decisions about their own bodies. This was a key moment for her, as she aimed to appeal to women voters who are concerned about the potential rollback of reproductive rights under a Trump administration.
Accusations:
The debate was marked by numerous accusations from both sides, with each candidate trying to discredit the other’s record.
- Trump’s Accusations:
- Incompetence in Foreign Policy: Trump accused Harris of being part of an administration that “destroyed” the country’s standing on the global stage. He blamed her and Biden for the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and suggested that their weakness led to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
- Weak on Israel: Trump claimed that Harris “hates Israel” and that if she became president, Israel would not exist within two years.
- Border Security Failures: Trump charged Harris with supporting weak border policies, leading to what he described as a “crisis” at the southern border, accusing her of undermining national security.
- Harris’s Accusations:
- Admiration of Dictators: Harris accused Trump of admiring authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin and wanting to become a dictator himself. She argued that his willingness to negotiate with strongmen put US national security at risk.
- Undermining Democracy: Harris suggested that Trump’s rhetoric contributed to political violence, including the assassination attempt he claimed occurred against him. She accused Trump of sowing division and undermining democratic institutions.
- Mismanagement of Migration: Harris countered Trump’s accusations on border security by pointing out that he had blocked efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform, accusing him of politicizing the issue for electoral gain.
Topics Were Discussed:
The debate covered a wide range of topics, many of which are central to the 2024 election:
- Foreign Policy: The candidates discussed the US role in global conflicts, particularly in Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Israel. Their differing approaches to diplomacy and military intervention were a central theme.
- National Security: Both candidates touched on issues related to national security, including border control, immigration, and terrorism. Trump emphasized the need for stronger border policies, while Harris defended her role in enhancing security.
- Women’s Rights: Harris focused on reproductive rights and women’s autonomy, a key issue for her campaign. She positioned herself as a protector of women’s rights in contrast to what she framed as Trump’s regressive policies.
- Economy: Although not as prominent as other topics, both candidates referenced the economy. Trump criticized the Biden administration for inflation and economic mismanagement, while Harris touted the Democrats’ efforts to rebuild the economy post-pandemic.
Debate Affect the Election:
The first debate between Trump and Harris is likely to have a significant impact on the election. Here are a few ways it could influence voters:
- Undecided Voters:
The debate could sway undecided voters who are still forming opinions about the candidates. Trump’s aggressive approach may appeal to his base, but Harris’s calm and composed demeanor might win over voters who are tired of political conflict. - Base Energizing:
Both candidates used the debate to energize their respective bases. Trump’s attacks on Harris and the Biden administration rallied his supporters, while Harris’s defense of women’s rights and her record could energize Democrats. - Media Coverage:
The way the media portrays the debate will also shape public opinion. If Harris is seen as holding her own against Trump, it could bolster her campaign. On the other hand, if Trump’s attacks resonate with voters, he could gain momentum.
The debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris was a critical moment in the 2024 presidential race. Both candidates made strong arguments, with Trump aggressively attacking Harris’s record and Harris responding with confidence. While neither candidate clearly dominated the debate, it highlighted key issues that will likely shape the remainder of the campaign. With foreign policy, national security, and women’s rights at the forefront, this debate has set the stage for an intense election season.
Credits: Mr. Waseem Shahzad Qadri also contribute this article
