On Sep. 10, an unprecedented presidential debate took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. For the first time in the nation’s history, in almost wicked irony, a convicted felon took to the podium against a former prosecutor. Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris appeared, ready to fight for their respective campaigns.
Trump focused primarily on the economic decline and lack of security in the U.S., delivering sharp comments at the Biden administration and Kamala herself, blaming Harris for the uprise in “criminal” immigration.
Harris, in contrast to Trump’s perspective, sought to paint a more optimistic picture of the country, defending the progress made under the Biden administration in areas such as COVID recovery to job growth, and infrastructure investments. During Harris’ time as Vice President, the nation has seen improved health care, stricter gun laws that have decreased the number of school shootings in the U.S, as well as abortion freedom in numersous states. Where Trump saw failure, Harris saw progress.
Both were not only defending policies, but advocating for two entirely different visions for America. Trump’s rhetoric, through which he emphasized nationalism and what he views as the true meaning of being an American, continued to resonate with an audience that feels left behind by those in power in Washington. Meanwhile, Harris stood firm in her advocacy for inclusion, government involvement, and justice reform, appealing to a diverse union of urban liberals, suburban moderates, and younger voters.
What was most striking, though, were the issues left undiscussed. The debate, which was full of the usual political theater, largely avoided crucial conversations about climate change, healthcare, and immigration reform. Instead of discussing solutions, much of the time was spent on assigning blame. The debate mainly focused on economics, foreign policy, and culture wars.
This avoidance wasn’t entirely surprising. These are the subjects that rile up their respective demographics. However, the absence of a deeper conversation about long-term, systemic challenges felt glaring. America’s politics have become more about winning the battle, rather than the war, with little regard for the pressing issues of the future.
In the aftermath of the debate, a clear victor was undetermined, although Harris had a distinct edge, worrying many Fox News pundits. To Trump supporters, their champion once again proved his strength and resilience. Yet the former president must have been shaken, for he has stated he will not be returning for another presidential debate.
Regardless, for Americans who do not fall into either absolute, the event offered little reassurance that the country is moving in the right direction.
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