US President Joe Biden and his Republican rival Donald Trump squared off in the first presidential debate ahead of the upcoming elections. Hosted by CNN in Atlanta, the debate provided a stark contrast between the two oldest candidates ever to seek the US presidency.
The 90-minute debate, aired across all major US networks, delved into crucial topics including economic policies, foreign affairs, immigration, and the state of American democracy. Moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, each candidate’s microphone was muted when not speaking, ensuring a structured discussion without interruptions from a live audience.
Joe Biden faced challenges early in the debate, reportedly battling a cold that affected his voice and coherence. Despite initial stumbling, Biden improved as the debate progressed. However, his performance left some Democratic lawmakers concerned, highlighting moments where he struggled to articulate his positions effectively.
In contrast, Donald Trump appeared energetic throughout the debate, defending his administration’s record while attacking Biden on various fronts. Trump’s assertions included claims about job creation, immigration policies, and economic strategies, although many were met with fact-checking scrutiny during and after the debate.
The debate touched on a range of contentious issues:
Economic Policies: Both candidates presented contrasting views on economic recovery post-COVID-19 and tax policies.
Foreign Policy: Discussions included relations with China, Middle East tensions, and international trade tariffs.
Jan. 6 Capitol Attack: Biden criticized Trump over his role in the Capitol attack, to which Trump responded defensively, shifting focus to Biden’s family controversies.
Personal Attacks: The debate saw personal attacks, including accusations of criminal behavior and moral judgments, reflecting the intense rivalry between the candidates.
The debate’s fiery exchanges and contrasting styles drew varied reactions from the public and political analysts. Biden’s supporters expressed concern over his performance dips, while Trump’s critics scrutinized his factual inaccuracies and combative demeanor.
