Trump was flailing. He threw invective and invented facts as he went along.’ Photograph: Brian Snyder/Reuters
Harris Dominates as Trump Stumbles in First Presidential Debate
An Exchange of Sharp Jabs and Personal Attacks
In a heated 90-minute debate, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump took the stage for the first time in Philadelphia. Though they shook hands, the atmosphere quickly became tense. Harris repeatedly rattled Trump with personal attacks, particularly on the Capitol riot and his dwindling rally sizes. This strategy appeared to throw Trump off his game, forcing him into long, defensive rants.
Trump Struggles to Stay on Message
Harris employed a strategy of goading Trump into defensive responses. Early in the debate, she targeted his rally crowds, claiming people were leaving early due to boredom. Trump’s reaction – defending his crowd sizes and dismissing her claims – highlighted a recurring theme. Instead of sticking to key policy points, Trump frequently shifted into defending his past conduct, losing focus on topics like immigration, where he might have had the upper hand.
Harris Shines on Economic and Abortion Issues
When asked about the economy, Harris pivoted the conversation to Trump’s tariff proposals, branding them a “Trump sales tax.” This move kept Trump from attacking her on inflation, a major vulnerability for the Biden administration. On the issue of abortion, Trump defended his role in overturning Roe v. Wade, but his statements were inconsistent with public polling. In contrast, Harris made a personal and emotionally charged appeal on the impact of restrictive abortion laws.
Moderators Under Fire for Fact-Checking Trump
Republicans have accused the ABC moderators of bias, noting that they fact-checked Trump multiple times. However, it was Trump’s inability to avoid Harris’ prodding that shaped the debate’s outcome. Harris consistently maintained a poised demeanor, while Trump appeared increasingly agitated.
Democrats Push for Second Debate After Strong Performance
With Harris’ campaign calling for a second debate shortly after the event, the Democratic side feels confident that their strategy worked. Harris’ ability to put Trump on the defensive, time and again, left her campaign in high spirits.