PHILADELPHIA, USA – In a heated and polarising presidential debate, Vice President Kamala Harris took centre stage against former President Donald Trump, with both candidates sparring over key issues including abortion, illegal immigration, and ongoing international conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
Harris emerged as a forceful debater, levelling harsh criticism at Trump’s record while defending her administration’s policies.
According to reports from Al Jazeera, Trump’s rhetoric throughout the debate appeared erratic and lacked focus, with many of his remarks centred on personal attacks against Harris.
In contrast, Harris maintained a pointed and sharp strategy, repeatedly calling Trump a “disgrace” while presenting her vision for the country’s future.
Trump vs. Harris: The Official Candidates
Both Trump and Harris formally accepted their respective party nominations earlier this year, setting up a contentious battle for the White House.
This debate follows June’s first presidential face-off between Trump and President Joe Biden, which saw concerns raised over Biden’s age.
Shortly afterward, Biden exited the race and offered his full endorsement to Harris.
Biden and Obama Praise Harris
President Joe Biden quickly offered his support after the debate, posting on X (formerly Twitter), “America got to see tonight the leader I’ve been proud to work alongside for three and a half years. Wasn’t even close. VP Harris proved she’s the best choice to lead our nation forward. We’re not going back.”
America got to see tonight the leader I’ve been proud to work alongside for three and a half years. Wasn’t even close. VP Harris proved she’s the best choice to lead our nation forward. We’re not going back.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 11, 2024
Kamala Harris echoed similar sentiments in her own statement following the debate, declaring, “We are not going back,” signalling her campaign’s emphasis on progress and stability in the face of Trump’s rhetoric.
Sparring Over the Issues
Throughout the night, Harris defended her administration’s handling of global conflicts and domestic policy, particularly on immigration and abortion.
Trump attacked the Biden-Harris administration for what he described as “disastrous” management of illegal immigration and the crises in Ukraine and Gaza, branding it as the “worst in history.”
Harris countered by highlighting her administration’s efforts to support Ukraine and Israel while turning her sights on Trump’s policies, particularly his stance on abortion.
She reiterated her promise to be a president for “all Americans,” contrasting it with Trump’s divisive approach.
Trump sought to paint Harris as a far-left candidate, accusing her of promoting open-border policies and a radical agenda, including gun confiscation.
Harris refuted these claims, pointing out that she and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, are both gun owners, labelling Trump’s accusations as baseless.
The exchanges were intense, with Trump calling Harris a “Marxist” and alleging plans to “confiscate everybody’s gun.”
Harris, unfazed, dismissed the attacks and repeatedly questioned Trump’s fitness to return to the Oval Office.
Obama and Michelle Obama Weigh-In
The debate drew praise from former President Barack Obama, who commended Harris’s performance.
“Tonight, we saw firsthand who has the vision and strength to move this country forward instead of dividing us,” Obama said in a statement. “@KamalaHarris will be a president for all Americans.”
Tonight, we saw firsthand who has the vision and strength to move this country forward instead of dividing us. @KamalaHarris will be a president for all Americans.
Let’s get to work: https://t.co/EuAXRi0gI2
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) September 11, 2024
Michelle Obama added to the chorus of support, urging Americans to campaign and vote for Harris.
“After tonight’s debate, there should be no doubt – no room for discussion – @KamalaHarris is the only candidate in this race who is ready to be President,” she stated.
After tonight’s debate there should be no doubt – no room for discussion – @KamalaHarris is the only candidate in this race who is ready to be President.
I am once again urging everyone to roll up their sleeves and DO SOMETHING – phone bank, knock on doors, talk to any and… pic.twitter.com/wEm07dVYkR
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) September 11, 2024
A Race to the Finish
As the U.S. presidential election draws closer, the stakes are high for both candidates. Harris, aiming to break barriers as the first woman and person of colour to be elected president, faces an uphill battle against Trump, who continues to rally his base.
With election day set for November 5, the debate only intensified the anticipation of what promises to be a fiercely contested race.
