In a tense and combative United States presidential debate on Tuesday night, President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris faced off for the first time, each aiming to sway undecided voters in a tight race.
From the outset, Harris set a confrontational tone, moving across the stage to shake hands with Trump before the debate began. “Let’s have a good debate,” she said, to which Trump replied, “Nice to see you.”
Throughout the 1 hour and 45-minute debate, Harris repeatedly challenged Trump, calling him “weak” and “wrong,” and alleging that world leaders view him as a “disgrace.” She reminded the audience, “Donald Trump was fired by 81 million voters,” referring to his defeat in the 2020 election. “Clearly, he’s having a very difficult time processing that,” she added.
Trump, who appeared agitated for much of the debate, responded by doubling down on several debunked conspiracy theories, including the claim that immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating pets. “In Springfield, they’re eating the dogs. They’re eating the cats,” he asserted, despite fact checks from the debate moderator, ABC’s David Muir, who noted that local officials had denied any such reports.
When questioned about his stance on abortion, Trump repeated his defense of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, claiming, “I did a great service in doing it. It took courage to do it.” Harris seized the opportunity to highlight the struggles of women who have been denied care following miscarriages or rape, stating, “You want to talk about what people wanted? Pregnant women who want to carry to term, suffering in emergency rooms — they didn’t want that.”
Harris, who has been a strong advocate for reproductive rights, attacked Trump’s position, saying he has no plan to address the needs of ordinary Americans. “Donald Trump has no plan for you,” she stated, looking directly into the camera. “He is more interested in defending himself than he is in looking out for you.”
Trump, in turn, portrayed the United States as a country in decline, insisting, “We have a nation that is dying,” and accused Democrats of trying to undermine U.S. elections by allowing undocumented immigrants to vote. Harris, however, largely refrained from engaging with his claims, allowing Trump to continue without challenge.
The debate, which took place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, marks the first time the two have met in person, and possibly their only face-off of the campaign. With Harris averaging 49% support and Trump at 48% in recent polls, the race remains tightly contested.
As the debate ended, Harris underscored her contrast with Trump, stating, “I believe you deserve a president who actually puts you first.”
The event, marked by sharp exchanges and a clear division on policy issues, has set the stage for a closely watched race as both candidates vie for the presidency.
