Who Came Out on Top in the Trump-Harris Presidential Debate? Observers Weigh In
In their first presidential debate, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris both accused each other of exacerbating divisions in America. The debate, held without a live audience at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, covered contentious topics including immigration, fracking, and the Israel-Gaza conflict. Outside the venue, protesters urged Harris to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza.
With polls showing Harris and Trump neck and neck, Al Jazeera gathered opinions from political observers on who came out ahead in the debate.
Barbara Perry, Presidential Historian at the University of Virginia: Perry noted that Trump supporters likely felt satisfied with the debate. “Harris provided a clear contrast with specific policy proposals, while Trump focused on generalities about a troubled past,” Perry said. “Harris needed to appeal to undecided voters in swing states, and she avoided major mistakes while gaining an endorsement from Taylor Swift.”
Michelle Austin Pamies, Haitian-American Leader and Lawyer: Pamies appreciated the exposure of Trump’s controversial comments about Haitian immigrants. “It was important to highlight the repulsive nature of his claims,” she said. “The debate brought these issues to the forefront, despite the moderator’s acknowledgment that these claims were unfounded.”
Reem Abuelhaj, Spokesperson for No Ceasefire No Vote Pennsylvania: Abuelhaj criticized Harris for her stance on Gaza. “Protesters felt they couldn’t support a candidate who backs what they see as genocidal policies,” Abuelhaj said. “Harris’s support for Biden’s policies on Gaza has fueled discontent among voters in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state.”
John Feehery, Republican Strategist: Feehery observed that moderators seemed to focus more on fact-checking Trump and less on Harris. “Harris had a slight edge in terms of style, though both candidates were heavily critical of each other. However, voters are more concerned with concrete plans to address the economy,” he added.
American Women and Politics, Rutgers University-Camden: Dittmar praised Harris for her ability to engage Trump directly, noting that Trump’s refusal to make eye contact could be perceived as dismissive. “Harris’s direct engagement and expressive reactions may resonate with voters who share her concerns about Trump’s statements,” Dittmar said.
Aaron Kall, Director of Debate at the University of Michigan: Kall described the debate as “unrecognizable” compared to previous encounters, like the June debate between Trump and Joe Biden. He cautioned that while Harris may have edged out a win, it’s unclear how this will affect the overall race or sway undecided voters.
Shannon Smith, Executive Director for FracTracker Alliance: Smith highlighted the debate’s lack of focus on environmental and health impacts of fracking. “The debate showed a continued lack of political will from both parties to address these issues,” Smith said. “We need leadership that prioritizes public health and environmental safety in energy policy.”
