Harris shreds Trump’s credibility in fiery presidential debate performance

Democratic nominee Kamala Harris delivered a robust performance during Tuesday night’s presidential debate, repeatedly putting Republican challenger Donald Trump on the defensive.

Throughout the nearly two-hour debate, Harris positioned herself as Trump’s stark opposite: calm and composed under pressure. She sought to undermine Trump’s credibility on key issues such as immigration, abortion, and the economy, while defending her own record and values.

‘They are laughing at Trump’

Harris accused Trump of being a “disgrace” in the eyes of world and military leaders and challenged his business achievements, remarking, “World leaders are laughing at Donald Trump.” She also highlighted her background, contrasting it with Trump’s financial history.

“I grew up a middle-class kid raised by a hardworking mother. Not everybody was handed $400 million and then filed bankruptcy six times,” Harris said, referring to Trump’s business practices.

In response, Trump denied the $400 million claim, stating he received “a fraction of that” and built his wealth into billions. He criticized Harris and President Joe Biden, accusing them of hating the country and labeling them as “Marxists.”

Trump also highlighted inflation and illegal immigration, claiming it was the worst in U.S. history and blaming it on individuals from prisons and mental institutions. Harris dismissed these allegations as “the same old, tired playbook” and reiterated her commitment to uniting the country.

Trump backtracked on his acknowledgment of his 2020 election loss, claiming earlier comments were made sarcastically. Harris seized on this, accusing Trump of being delusional and unfit to serve as president. “Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people. Clearly, he’s having a very difficult time processing that,” she said.

After the debate, Harris’s campaign challenged Trump to a second debate, with campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon stating, “Vice President Harris is ready for a second debate. Is Donald Trump?”

Trump avoids commitment on abortion ban

Trump took credit for the rollback of federal abortion rights but dodged questions on whether he would veto a national ban on the procedure. He claimed such legislation would be difficult to pass due to close divides in Congress.

Harris criticized Trump for the impact of abortion restrictions, stating, “Women in states with curtailed access are living under Donald Trump’s abortion bans,” and argued that American voters support a woman’s right to choose.

Harris defends US foreign policy

In a brief discussion on foreign policy, Trump accused Harris of hating Israel and predicted its destruction under her presidency. Harris denied the accusation, defending her longstanding support for Israel and criticizing Trump’s foreign policy stance.

“Donald Trump admires dictators and wants to be one himself,” she said, adding that if Trump were still in office, Russian President Vladimir Putin would have expanded his aggression in Europe.

Trump was evasive when asked if he wanted Ukraine to win the war, focusing instead on ending the conflict and saving lives.

Trump’s migrant claims

In a bizarre moment, Trump reiterated false claims that Haitian migrants in Ohio were eating pets, a statement widely debunked. Harris responded sharply, “This is one of the reasons why I have the endorsement of 200 Republicans.”

The debate showcased sharp contrasts between the candidates on key issues, setting the stage for a contentious election season.