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.POLL AFTER US PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE: HARRIS – 63%; TRUMP – 37%
The inaugural presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump transformed into a fiery confrontation lasting over 90 minutes.
The evening began with a handshake from Harris, which swiftly gave way to intense arguments.
According to a CNN and SSRS poll conducted after the debate, 63% of viewers thought Harris was the winner, while 37% favored Trump.
However, the poll has a margin of error of +/- 5.3%.
Before the debate, CNN’s poll showed respondents were evenly split 50%-50% on the anticipated winner.
In June, their instant poll had 33% of debate watchers believing Biden won and 67% supporting Trump.
Harris sharply criticised Trump, advocating for a “new generation of leadership” and taking aim at his previous policies and remarks.
Trump countered with robust critiques, targeting Harris on various fronts including Afghanistan and immigration.
He also drew parallels between Harris and President Joe Biden, highlighting his dissatisfaction with their administration’s handling of key issues.
The debate showcased a clear divide between the two candidates, setting the stage for a contentious election season.
ABC reports that with Election Day just eight weeks away, the debate came at a pivotal moment as polls reveal a tight race between the candidates.
A majority of debate viewers believe Harris won.
During the debate, Harris put Trump on the defensive early on, accusing him of relying on a “tired playbook” of lies and name-calling.
She also criticised his rallies and was the first to mention his multiple indictments.
Trump, on the other hand, sought to link Harris to President Joe Biden, criticizing their economic record and repeatedly asserting, “She is Biden.”
The debate did not address Harris’ gender but did touch on her race.
Trump reiterated false claims about her racial identity but claimed he was “not concerned.”
Both candidates engaged in sharp exchanges, with notable jabs such as:
Trump: “Wait a minute, I’m talking now, if you don’t mind, please. Does that sound familiar?”
Harris: “Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people.”
Harris: “He talks about fictional characters like Hannibal Lecter.”
Following the debate, Harris’ campaign quickly called for a second debate.
An email from her campaign stated, “Under the bright lights, the American people got to see the choice they will face this fall at the ballot box: between moving forward with Kamala Harris or going backward with Trump.
That’s what they saw tonight and what they should see at a second debate in October.
Vice President Harris is ready for a second debate. Is Donald Trump?”
In response to the call for another debate, Trump told ABC News’ Katherine Faulders that Harris requested a second debate because she “lost tonight, very badly.”
