Utoo Radio with Other News Source - September 11, 2024 - Donald Trump and Kamala Harris faced off on the debate stage for the first time ever, with Harris controlling the conversation at times, baiting Trump with jabs at his economic policy, his refusal to concede his 2020 election loss, and even his performance at his rallies. Trump, while measured early on, grew more annoyed as the night went on. Taylor Swift said she'll vote for Harris.
Harris took the fight to Trump in a way that Biden could not. She accused Trump of presiding over the worst attack on American democracy since the Civil War, the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, and mocked Trump's praise of dictators. Trump grew visibly irritated as she went after his performance at his rallies, noting that people often leave early.
Trump labeled Harris as "Biden," arguing that immigrants have "destroyed the fabric of our country." He repeatedly tied Harris to Biden, stating that she is the worst inflation we've ever had. Harris responded that she is not Joe Biden and she offers a new generation of leadership for our country.
Trump also went after Harris for moving away from some of her progressive positions in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, urging voters not to believe the more moderate tone she's striking in this campaign. Swift called Harris a "gifted leader," telling her fans to do their research and make their own decisions.
In the 2020 presidential election, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump faced off on abortion rights, a topic that has been a strong issue for Democrats since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Harris defended abortion rights, highlighting the challenges women face in medical complications and the need to travel out of state for an abortion. Trump, on the other hand, was fierce in defense, stating that he returned the issue to the states, which many Americans wanted. He also traded on a Harris talking point, stating that he did a great service in doing so and that the Supreme Court had great courage in doing so.
Harris made an explicit appeal to Republican voters, citing her gun ownership and the "late, great John McCain" reference. She also listed the many Republicans who formerly served in the Trump administration who have now endorsed her campaign. Trump, on the other hand, offered little outreach to voters in the middle, ignoring calls for unity.
The debate also touched on the economy, with Trump slammed Harris for his plan to implement sweeping tariffs and the trade deficit he ran as president. Both candidates stayed behind their podiums as instructed, with no explicit jabs regarding gender during the debate. The debate was a significant moment for both candidates, as they both addressed the issues of abortion rights and the economy.
