In a historic first, former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden engaged in a heated debate, covering a range of contentious issues including the economy, foreign policy, and personal attacks.
Economic Boasting and Inflation Concerns
The debate kicked off with both Trump and Biden claiming credit for economic success during their respective terms. Trump criticized Biden for rising inflation, claiming his policies were detrimental to the economy. Biden countered, blaming Trump for a significant tax deficit and economic collapse upon taking office.
Trump criticized Biden’s handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, labeling it “embarrassing” and suggesting it emboldened conflicts like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Biden defended his stance on supporting Ukraine and labeled Russian President Vladimir Putin a “war criminal.”
Israel-Palestine Conflict
The debate also touched on the Israel-Hamas conflict, with Biden supporting a ceasefire and Trump suggesting Israel should continue military operations in Gaza.
Trump evaded questions on his role in the Capitol Hill uprising and refused to commit to accepting election results, while Biden criticized Trump’s actions and rhetoric surrounding the insurrection.
READ MORE: “Faltering Biden Faces Off Against Forceful Trump in Presidential Debate”
Abortion Rights and Supreme Court
Biden stumbled on explaining Roe v. Wade, while Trump supported recent Supreme Court decisions limiting abortion access but advocated exceptions for rape, incest, and maternal health.
Climate Change and Personal Attacks
Biden accused Trump of inaction on climate change, calling it the “only existential threat to humanity.” Personal attacks escalated throughout the debate, with Biden referencing Trump’s legal issues and Trump denying derogatory remarks about fallen soldiers.
Trump portrayed himself as a record of success and criticized Biden’s leadership, while Biden emphasized tax policy and promised actions to tackle inflation.
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