The first and potentially only vice presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris took place on Tuesday at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. This highly anticipated event, moderated by ABC World News Tonight anchors David Muir and Linsey Davis, lasted 90 minutes and featured two commercial breaks. No audience was present in the room.
The debate comes just eight weeks before the presidential election on November 5, 2024, and carries significant weight. Harris has held a consistent three-point lead in head-to-head polls in a key national Morning Consult survey, maintaining her advantage since former President Biden’s decision to step down from the race. This wasn’t the first debate for Trump, who previously sparred with Biden in June.
A Symbolic Handshake Breaks an Eight-Year Drought: The debate began with a historic moment: Harris and Trump shaking hands as the Vice President introduced herself. This marked the first time the two candidates met and broke an eight-year drought of no handshakes at the start of presidential debates. This tradition was broken in 2016 when Trump chose not to shake hands with former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and continued in 2020 when he refused to shake hands with Biden.
Economy and Cost of Living Take Center Stage: The first question was directed at Vice President Harris, asking if she believed U.S. citizens were in a better position today than four years ago. Harris, acknowledging her middle-class background, emphasized her plans to build an inclusive economy. She highlighted her commitment to the aspirations of the American people and her plans for tax cuts for young families and support for small businesses.
Trump countered Harris’s remarks by arguing that his economic policies had led to a strong economy, pointing to his success in reducing unemployment and bringing prosperity. He accused Harris and Biden of letting in illegal immigrants who were taking jobs away from Americans and causing inflation.
The debate continued with both candidates addressing their economic plans, the cost of living, and immigration, showcasing their differing visions for the future of the United States. The debate was marked by heated exchanges, with both candidates seeking to sway voters with their arguments.
