The 2024 Presidential Debate

Voter’s Takeaway: Key Moments From the Presidential Debate

PDM 1.0

Millions of Americans tuned in to ABC News to watch the presidential candidates, former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, meet for their first and last debate. Assembled at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Sept. 10, the candidates discussed their plans and policies. Targeted at voters, the candidates revealed their strategies and stances on national concerns.

The debate commenced as moderators David Muir and Linsey Davis highlighted the rules. Each candidate was asked a question by one of the moderators and given two minutes to respond. To ensure fairness, the candidates' microphones were only turned on when it was their turn to speak.

As soon as the debate began, it was revealed to voters that both candidates had very polarizing visions for America’s future. The main topics debated were the economy, immigration, climate change, abortion, foreign affairs and gun rights.

When asked of his economic agenda, Trump revealed a plan to cut taxes and regulations. He plans to impose a 10% to 20% tariff on all foreign goods, and a 60% tariff on goods imported from China. Regarding the economy, Harris revealed her plan to produce an “opportunity economy.” In this plan, she aims to extend tax cuts to families and small businesses.

When asked about immigration policies, Harris defended recent border policies created by the Biden administration. She stated immigration numbers have dropped after stricter measures were implemented in July 2024. When Trump was asked, he revealed that his immigration plan includes mass deportations and stricter border policies.

Unlike her previous policies as California Senator, Harris has taken a more centrist position on key issues such as minimum wage, paid leave and childcare funding.

“Not saying either one's right or wrong, but I do think she shifted in her policy,” senior John Fletcher Butler said. “I think she might be trying to appeal to new voters in advance of the debate, but there could be several reasons why she could change the proposal.”

While debating these national concerns, the candidates were contentious. There were multiple interruptions, stark comments and clashing perspectives. Many of these comments were fact checked by the moderators, and proven to be inaccurate or exaggerations.

“I do think over the last couple decades, debates have drifted from their original intent,” upper school history teacher Stephanie Amidon said. “Unfortunately, lately, it seems that they've just become less about policy and more about public opinion and personal petty.”

The candidates demonstrated a clashing of ideas and opinions, in hopes to secure votes from viewers.

“I don’t think that there was a clear winner in the debate,” senior Kate Reichelderfer said. “I think Trump was able to make strong points about the mass illegal immigration on the southern border, but Kamala made good points about abortion.”

As the election approaches, Americans will cast their vote on the candidate they believe is the best leader.