Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will face off for the first time in a crucial debate tonight at 9 p.m. Eastern in Philadelphia. This debate, likely their only encounter before the 2024 election, provides a significant opportunity for both candidates to present their contrasting visions for the country.
Since the last debate in June, the political landscape has shifted dramatically. President Joe Biden has exited the race following a poor performance, Trump survived an assassination attempt, and both candidates have selected their running mates.
Harris aims to highlight her ability to challenge Trump more effectively than Biden did. Meanwhile, Trump seeks to portray Harris as an out-of-touch liberal while addressing concerns about his return to the White House.
At 78, Trump has struggled to adjust to Harris, 59, who is the first woman, Black person, and person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president. The former president has occasionally resorted to racial and gender stereotypes, frustrating allies who prefer he focus on policy differences.
Harris will attempt to take credit for the Biden administration's achievements while addressing its shortcomings and justifying her move from more liberal positions. This debate will be a rare opportunity for her to face sustained questioning, having given only one formal interview in the past six weeks.
Ari Fleischer, a Republican strategist, noted that Harris's performance could have significant implications. "If she performs well, it could energize Democrats," Fleischer said. "If she fails, it could alter the race."
Tim Hogan, who prepared Sen. Amy Klobuchar for debates, commented that Harris's prosecutorial background would be advantageous. "Her ability to land a punch and translate it is a strong quality in this setting," Hogan said.
The debate, hosted by ABC News, will be followed by the first early ballots for the presidential race. Absentee ballots will be sent out starting Wednesday in Alabama.
Trump plans to criticize Harris for her more liberal positions from her 2020 presidential campaign, with informal debate prep support from Tulsi Gabbard, who previously criticized Harris during their primary debates.
Harris has defended her shift to more moderate stances on issues like fracking and Medicare for all, asserting that her core values remain unchanged. Her campaign recently published her positions on key issues.
Trump has labeled a potential Harris presidency as a threat to national safety, emphasizing her role in addressing immigration issues. He aims to portray a Harris presidency as a continuation of Biden’s unpopular administration, particularly its economic record amid ongoing inflation concerns.
Trump's team insists his tone will remain unchanged. Senior adviser Jason Miller stated, "President Trump is going to be himself."
Gabbard added that Trump "respects women" and will not alter his approach based on gender.
Trump's advisers suggest Harris often speaks in a "word salad," leading Trump to plan a strategy of letting her speak freely. Trump’s remarks frequently diverge into lengthy, often unfounded claims and personal attacks.
Harris will argue that Trump is unstable and unfit for office. She is expected to address Trump’s inconsistencies on women’s reproductive rights and his recent threats of retribution against those he perceives as opponents.
With ongoing global conflicts and domestic challenges, Harris will likely emphasize her steadiness and commitment to safeguarding democratic values. She has been intensively preparing for this debate, including mock sessions with a Trump stand-in, and has indicated she is ready to handle potential falsehoods from Trump.
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