Trump-Harris debate live updates: Candidates go on the attack in zinger-filled showdown
The first presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump was nothing short of a 90-minute spectacle. And surprise, surprise – it wasn’t just about policies and ideologies.
Starting with a handshake from Harris, things quickly escalated into a war of words. Harris passionately critiqued Trump’s policies, labeling them as remnants of the past. According to Harris, it’s high time for a youthful wave of leadership to cascade through the country.
Trump, true to form, didn’t hold back. With jabs on Afghanistan and immigration, he painted Harris as an extension of President Biden, asserting that change would mean more of the same.
Polls have the two candidates in a tight race, and with Election Day just eight weeks away, the debate’s timing couldn’t have been more critical.
Latest headlines:
A transcript of the Harris-Trump debate
The words flew fast and furious, but if you missed a second, don’t worry – the transcript is available. ABC News hosted this fiery face-off at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.
Melania Trump not in attendance at debate
Look who wasn’t at the party! While Trump had his son Eric and his daughter-in-law Lara Trump by his side, Melania’s absence didn’t go unnoticed. Rumor has it, Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, and a cadre of Trump’s advisors were there to hold down the fort.
Oh, and let’s not forget Laura Loomer, the controversial media influencer known for her inflammatory takes. It seems she too hopped on the Trump train to Philly.
But wait, what about Joe Biden?
‘Wasn’t even close’: Biden reacts to debate
President Joe Biden couldn’t resist chiming in on social media. His verdict? Harris won it hands down. Far from a close call, he said, tagging Harris as the shining beacon ready to lead America forward.
As for Biden, while Harris was duking it out with Trump, he was in New York City gearing up for 9/11 memorial services at Ground Zero.
Over half of debate watchers think Harris won: Poll
According to a CNN and SSRS poll conducted after the debate, 63% of viewers declared Harris the victor, leaving Trump with a mere 37%. For those keeping score, the poll shows a significant lead for Harris compared to the evenly split predictions pre-debate.
It’s worth noting that back in June, Trump’s debate performance was lauded by 67% of viewers, versus only 33% for Biden. This shows how quickly tides can turn in the tumultuous world of politics.
Key takeaways from the Harris-Trump debate
Harris wasted no time putting Trump on the defensive, forecasting a debate filled with the ‘same old playbook’ of lies and grievances. She also caustically referenced his rally antics and indictments, ensuring that no stone was left unturned. Trump retaliated by tethering Harris to Biden and their administration’s economic track record.
Race, not gender, took center stage, with Trump doubling down on his controversial claims about Harris’s racial identity. His apparent nonchalance about her heritage nevertheless caused quite a stir.
Best zingers from the Harris-Trump ABC News debate
The night was rife with verbal sparring. Some notable exchanges:
Trump: “Wait a minute, I’m talking now, if you don’t mind, please. Does that sound familiar?”
Harris: “Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people.”
Harris: “He talks about fictional characters like Hannibal Lecter.”
Melania Trump not in attendance at debate
What’s the score with the Trump family? Eric and Lara Trump made it, but Melania was a no-show. Instead, Trump’s entourage included Matt Gaetz, Tulsi Gabbard, and Trump-aligned staffers – with a notorious twist, thanks to Laura Loomer.
