The first 2024 Presidential Debate on September 10 was an interestingly comical event, in some areas, between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Both candidates came ready to “cap” on one another, and there was plenty to unpack regarding their claims, as well as how voters might see their value for the election.
Fact-Checks and Debate Outcome
The candidates made bold claims that were later verified for accuracy:
- Trump on Abortion: He falsely claimed that a former Virginia governor supported doctors deciding to “execute” newborns. This is a serious misunderstanding of a 2019 comment about nonviable fetuses. The discussion was about medical care, not killing infants. Source: Poynter.org
- Harris on Oil Production: Harris’s claim that the Biden administration presided over the largest increase in oil production in history was partially accurate. Although production reached record levels, the year-to-year increases during the Trump and Obama administrations were greater. Source: Politifact.com
- Trump on Job Fraud: Trump claimed that the Biden administration engaged in job data fraud by citing an 818,000-job correction; however, this adjustment was actually part of a routine annual statistical update and not fraudulent in nature. Source: Poynter.org
- Harris on Unemployment: She argued that Trump left the U.S. with the highest unemployment rate since the Great Depression. Although unemployment did spike during the pandemic, it had significantly declined by the time Trump finished his term. Source: Politifact.com
As for the debate’s outcome, it was clear that both candidates stuck to their core platforms, with Harris focusing on the Biden administration’s accomplishments, while Trump energized his supporters with criticisms of the current administration, there was no definitive winner; both candidates displayed moments of strength and inaccuracies. However, the night clearly highlighted their differing approaches.
Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons of both candidates.
Pros and Cons of Voting for Kamala Harris
Pros:
- Experience: As Vice President, Harris has direct experience in managing national issues like the pandemic and foreign policy.
- Progressive Policies: She supports initiatives like criminal justice reform, climate action, and healthcare expansion, which appeals to voters seeking social change.
- Representation: Harris represents diversity, breaking barriers as the first woman, African American, and South Asian Vice President.
Cons:
- Moderate Pushback: Some progressive voters feel Harris hasn’t pushed far enough on liberal policies.
- Criticism on Key Issues: Her handling of immigration and inflation has drawn criticism, with some voters feeling progress has been slow.
- Lower Favorability: Polling data suggests Harris faces challenges in winning over undecided or independent voters.
Pros and Cons of Voting for Donald Trump
Pros:
- Economic Strength Pre-COVID: Supporters credit Trump with strong economic performance before the pandemic, including job creation and tax cuts.
- Populist Appeal: Trump’s “America First” policies resonate with many voters who feel neglected by globalization and want strong domestic focus.
- Judicial Legacy: He appointed numerous conservative judges, including three Supreme Court justices, which appeals to voters focused on issues like abortion and gun rights.
Cons:
- Controversial Rhetoric: Trump’s divisive language around immigration, race, and gender has been a source of national polarization.
- Pandemic Response: His handling of the COVID-19 crisis drew significant criticism, especially regarding his downplaying of the virus’s severity.
- Legal Troubles: Trump’s ongoing legal battles, particularly related to the January 6 Capitol riots, raise concerns about his ability to lead effectively.
Both Harris and Trump bring unique visions for America, each rooted in their respective party ideologies. Harris promises to build on the Biden administration’s policies, with a focus on inclusivity and reform, while Trump offers a return to his version of “America First,” emphasizing economic growth and conservative values. The choice is ultimately about what direction voters want the country to go.
What are your thoughts? Please share them.
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