Debate: Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will face off on Tuesday in a highly anticipated debate that could shape the course of the U.S. presidential election in November. The debate, scheduled for 6:30 AM IST on Wednesday, might be the only one before voters head to the polls.
Here are 7 key things to watch out for ahead of the debate:
1. Neck-and-Neck Race
Recent polling from The New York Times/Siena College shows that Trump is slightly ahead of Harris, with 48% to her 47%, but the margin is razor-thin. With just weeks before Election Day, this debate could be a critical turning point for either candidate, as every small move counts in such a tight race.
2. High Stakes for Harris
Harris might have more at stake in this debate than Trump. Around 28% of likely voters say they still need to learn more about her, compared to just 9% for Trump. This presents Harris with both an opportunity and a challenge. She needs to clearly define her platform and showcase her strengths, without making any major missteps that could give Trump ammunition.
3. Learning from Biden’s Mistakes
Trump’s first debate with Joe Biden earlier this season didn’t go well for the former president, and Biden’s performance was seen as disastrous, leading to his withdrawal from the race. Harris can learn from Biden’s mistakes by maintaining composure and exploiting Trump’s weaknesses, something Biden failed to do effectively.
4. What Trump Needs to Do
Trump will need to step up his performance. In his debate with Biden, he was criticized for going off-topic and being overly aggressive. This time, with Harris as his opponent, he may need to adjust his strategy. Harris, at 59, is younger and quicker to respond than Biden, and Trump’s usual tactics might not work against her.
5. Choosing the Right Issues
The debate will cover major topics like the economy, immigration, and reproductive rights. Harris will likely focus on issues like abortion, which resonate with key voter groups, particularly women. Trump, meanwhile, is expected to emphasize immigration and the economy, areas where he believes he has an advantage.
6. Debate Rules Could Impact Strategy
Debate rules, negotiated earlier this year, may limit interruptions by muting candidates’ microphones when it’s not their turn to speak. This could be a disadvantage for Trump, who often interrupts his opponents, and might curb Harris’s ability to press Trump on issues like a prosecutor would in a courtroom.
7. High Stakes in a Short Campaign
With no other debates scheduled before the election, Tuesday’s event might be the only chance for both candidates to make a major public impression. Harris’s campaign has been brief, but this debate could be a pivotal moment for her. For Trump, it’s a chance to regain momentum in a race that’s still too close to call.
Both Harris and Trump know how important this debate is, and it’s expected to be a showdown that could define their respective campaigns.