Heated exchanges over economy, foreign affairs, and immigration dominate the debate
In a highly anticipated event, U.S. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump engaged in their first debate of the 2024 election on Thursday night. The debate, held at CNN headquarters in Atlanta, saw both candidates exchanging sharp barbs over critical issues such as the U.S. economy, foreign affairs, and immigration.
From the outset, the debate was marked by intense exchanges. Trump criticized the current state of the U.S., stating, “We’re like a Third World nation and it’s a shame.” He further accused Biden of causing a loss of respect for the country, saying, “We’re no longer respected. They think we’re stupid.”
Biden countered by calling Trump “the worst president in American history,” referencing a group of historians who had ranked Trump last among the country’s 46 presidents. Biden added, “This guy has no sense of American democracy.”
Trump, often taking an aggressive stance, frequently interrupted Biden, who struggled with a halting and raspy voice. The candidates repeatedly accused each other of lying, with a post-debate CNN survey indicating that 67% of viewers felt Trump convincingly won the debate, compared to 33% for Biden. This outcome alarmed some Democrats concerned about Biden’s performance.
Trump repeatedly linked the nation’s problems to immigration, claiming that migrants crossing the southwestern U.S. border were harming the economy and taking American jobs. He asserted, “We had the safest border in the world,” during his presidency, now calling it “the most dangerous place in the world.” He further dramatized the situation, stating, “We are now living in a rat’s nest,” and alleging that migrants were responsible for unprecedented levels of crime, though there is no substantial evidence supporting the claim that migrants commit more crimes than native-born Americans.
Biden refuted Trump’s claims, arguing that Trump was “exaggerating, he’s lying,” and highlighting that 40% fewer migrants were crossing the border due to recent tighter entry restrictions.
Trump promised to end Russia’s war with Ukraine and secure the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich from a Russian prison if he wins the election. However, he did not provide specific details on how he would achieve these goals.
Biden criticized Trump’s stance on Russia, labeling President Vladimir Putin as “a war criminal” and questioning Trump’s understanding of international relations. Biden highlighted Trump’s desire to withdraw from NATO and accused him of lacking a comprehensive foreign policy strategy.
Biden accused Trump of inciting the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, where Trump supporters attempted to block Congress from certifying Biden’s 2020 victory. Trump shifted the blame to then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for inadequate security measures.
Biden attacked Trump over his recent conviction on 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 hush money payment to a porn star before the 2016 election. Trump dismissed the case, stating, “That case is going to be appealed and won.” He faces sentencing on July 11, with potential outcomes ranging from probation to a four-year prison term. Despite these legal issues, the U.S. Constitution does not prevent a convicted felon from serving as president.
Thursday’s debate was historic as it was the earliest presidential debate in a U.S. election cycle and the first time two U.S. presidents debated each other. This debate was also the first face-to-face encounter between Biden and Trump since their last debate in October 2020. Trump had notably skipped Biden’s January 2021 inauguration, and their animosity has continued to manifest publicly, including in the debate.
With no studio audience, the debate was an intimate yet intense confrontation, primarily attended by a handful of aides. First Lady Jill Biden was present, while Trump’s wife, Melania, was absent. Several Republicans eyeing the vice-presidential slot for Trump attended. Both Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, are the oldest candidates in U.S. presidential history, with national polls showing a virtual dead heat between them.
As millions of Americans have likely made up their minds, the debate may not have swayed many voters. However, for political independents and those less engaged in the electoral process, the debate could provide insights or direction. A second debate is scheduled for September 10.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis of the 2024 presidential election as Biden and Trump continue their contentious battle for the White House.
