Presidential debates are crucial moments in American politics. The upcoming debate on Tuesday night between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris—their only scheduled face-off—could be a game-changer for the campaign.
The Democratic Party faced intense pressure after Joe Biden’s lackluster performance in the first presidential debate last June, which ultimately led him to halt his re-election bid.
Despite serving as vice president for over three years and launching her presidential campaign seven weeks ago, Harris remains a relative unknown to many Americans. A recent New York Times survey revealed that 28% of likely November voters feel they need to know more about the Californian.
This poll indicates a statistical dead heat in the race—aligning with other recent surveys nationally and in key battleground states. The 2024 presidential campaign has been tumultuous, yet the American electorate remains sharply and narrowly divided.
This narrow division underscores the importance of Tuesday night’s debate. Even minor shifts in voter sentiment could determine the outcome between the candidates.
Trump Fine-Tuning Theatrics Before Harris Debate
For Harris, the debate in Philadelphia is an opportunity to clearly articulate her policies to millions. However, she will face intense rhetorical attacks from her Republican opponent.
This opportunity carries risks, as Harris might define herself—and her positions—in ways that could harm her electoral chances. She has struggled with answering tough questions under pressure and has limited her media interactions early in her campaign, hindering her ability to refine her messaging.
While Harris positions herself as the change candidate, moderators and Trump are likely to challenge her on the Biden administration’s record, especially on issues where Democrats are vulnerable, such as border security and inflation.
Additionally, Harris must address why she has stepped back from some of the more liberal policies she supported during her unsuccessful 2020 Democratic presidential bid. She has recently modified her stance on a fracking ban, decriminalizing border crossing, and nationalizing health insurance, among others.
She claims these changes reflect new circumstances, but some voters may see them as politically expedient moves.
Trump’s Strategy to Regain Campaign Initiative
For Trump, the debate is a chance to reclaim control of the campaign after a month dominated by Democratic momentum with their new nominee and energetic convention. Trump excels in the spotlight, often setting the terms of political discourse to keep his opponents off-balance. His focus on issues like immigration and trade, which enjoy broad popular support, keeps them at the forefront of political conversation.
However, Trump faces his own challenges. His inconsistent performance in the June debate with Biden went largely unnoticed due to Biden’s verbal missteps. Harris is expected to present a more agile opponent, requiring Trump’s responses to be sharper and more precise.
At a recent New York economic forum, Trump struggled to clearly explain his childcare policies. Such verbal missteps during the debate could provide Democrats with ample campaign material.
Moreover, Trump must be cautious when engaging with Harris—the second female presidential nominee and the first of color. If he appears domineering or dismissive, it could further weaken his already fragile support among female voters.
Harris’s Campaign Faces Crucial Moment
The two candidates have prepared differently for Tuesday night’s debate. Harris, a former prosecutor, has been in Pittsburgh near Philadelphia, participating in mock debates and refining her policy proposals. This strategy also allowed her to engage with local media in Pennsylvania, a vital battleground state.
In contrast, Trump, who has debated in the past three elections, has held more informal sessions, including reviewing his positions on key issues. Last week, he took part in a town hall forum hosted by conservative Fox News.
Tuesday’s debate will thus showcase a stark contrast in styles and political philosophies.
With early voting starting this month in crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania, this debate could significantly influence the political landscape for the final two months of the 2024 presidential race. It remains the last major opportunity for both candidates to sway voters in states where every ballot is decisive.
