In the first presidential debate, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump went head-to-head, giving voters a chance to compare the two oldest candidates to ever run for the presidency.
The candidates didn’t shake hands as they stood at podiums close to each other in a studio without a live audience. They debated economic policies, foreign affairs, immigration, and the state of American democracy.
Key Moments from the Debate:
In his closing statement, Trump called Biden a “complainer” and criticized his record. Biden focused on tax reform and promised to fight inflation.
Fact Check: National Guard Deployment
Trump claimed he sent the National Guard during the 2020 unrest after George Floyd’s murder. This is incorrect. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, not Trump, activated the National Guard in response to local requests.
Trump on Accepting Election Results
When asked if he would accept the election results, Trump said he would if it was a “fair and legal election.” Biden accused Trump of being a sore loser who appeals in courts without proof of fraud.
Biden on Tax Fairness
Biden promised to make millionaires pay their fair share of taxes and assured he wouldn’t raise Social Security costs for those earning under $400,000.
Age and Cognitive Tests
Trump boasted about passing cognitive tests and suggested Biden should take one. Biden highlighted his long career and achievements, despite criticisms about his age.
Trump Accuses Biden of Being “Paid by China”
Trump accused Biden of being influenced by China, calling him a “Manchurian candidate.”
Biden Attacks Trump on Deficit
Biden noted that Trump had the largest deficit of any president while he never raised taxes on the middle class.
Speaking Time
Trump spoke for 23 minutes and six seconds, while Biden spoke for 18 minutes and 26 seconds.
Climate Change and Paris Accord
Biden criticized Trump for pulling out of the Paris Climate Accord. Trump defended his decision, saying it cost the US trillions and didn’t curb emissions in China, Russia, and India.
Inflation Debate
Trump blamed Biden for causing inflation that harms Black and Hispanic communities. Biden countered that job creation under his administration boosted the economy.
Immigration and Border Policies
Biden criticized Trump’s harsh immigration policies, highlighting family separations. Trump said his administration aimed to manage immigration effectively.
Abortion Rights and Roe v. Wade
Biden condemned Trump’s role in overturning Roe v. Wade, calling it a “terrible thing.” Trump said he wouldn’t block abortion medication if re-elected.
Jobs and Economic Recovery
Trump claimed job growth under Biden was just a rebound from the pandemic. Biden argued that his administration’s efforts surpassed pre-pandemic employment levels.
Afghanistan Withdrawal
Trump criticized Biden’s troop withdrawal from Afghanistan as the most embarrassing event in US history. Biden defended the withdrawal, saying it was done with dignity and strength.
Ukraine War
Trump claimed the Ukraine war wouldn’t have started under his leadership. Biden emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine against aggression.
No Live Audience
Due to COVID-19 protocols, there was no live audience. The debate was broadcast by all major networks and hosted by CNN.
Campaign Ads and Attacks
Both campaigns released new attack ads ahead of the debate. Trump’s team targeted Biden’s economic policies, while Biden’s camp highlighted Trump’s legal troubles.
This first debate of the 2024 election cycle took place in a polarized political climate, setting the stage for a closely contested race.