ABC News Presidential Debate

Overview

The debate took place in Philadelphia, marking the first face-to-face meeting between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
This event is considered highly consequential due to its potential impact on the upcoming presidential election.
President Biden withdrew from the race, leaving Harris as the Democratic candidate against Trump.
The candidates are closely tied in polls nationally and in key battleground states.

90-minute duration with two commercial breaks.
Candidates have 2 minutes to answer questions, with additional time for rebuttals and clarifications.
No pre-written notes allowed, and microphones control when the candidates can speak.
Trump won the coin toss and chose to deliver the final closing statement.

Harris: Focuses on creating an "opportunity economy" and supporting the middle class.
- Proposes a $6,000 tax cut for families and a $50,000 tax deduction for startup small businesses.
- Criticizes Trump for tax cuts benefiting billionaires and large corporations.
Trump: Claims tariffs, not a sales tax, will benefit the U.S. economy by making other countries pay.
- Asserts his previous administration achieved a strong economy and criticizes current economic inflation.

Harris: Critiques Trump for running on problems instead of solutions.
- Supports a border security bill for more agents and prosecution resources.
Trump: Emphasizes the negative impact of illegal immigration on the economy and crime rates.
- Proposes using the military and National Guard for massive deportation efforts.

Harris: Advocates for reinstating Roe v. Wade protections and criticizes Trump's abortion bans.
Trump: Discusses state-level control over abortion laws, denies plans for a national abortion ban.

Ukraine: Trump claims he could negotiate peace quickly and criticizes current administration's handling.
- Harris emphasizes U.S. support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Middle East: Harris supports Israel’s right to defend itself while calling for care in military actions.
- Trump criticizes Harris for being weak on national security and ties to foreign leaders.

Healthcare: Trump discusses ideas for replacing Obamacare if a better plan is found.
- Harris supports strengthening the Affordable Care Act and emphasizes protections for pre-existing conditions.
Climate Change: Harris calls it an existential threat and supports clean energy investments.
- Trump focuses on economic impacts of climate policies and criticizes current approaches.

Harris: Advocates for unity, plans to support the middle class, protect rights, and maintain international respect.
Trump: Criticizes Harris for not achieving goals during her tenure, emphasizes a need to restore America's strength.

The debate highlighted stark contrasts between the candidates on policy decisions and visions for America’s future.
Both candidates focused on economic policies, immigration, national security, and social issues as key points of discussion.