The much-anticipated ABC News Presidential Debate brought Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump head-to-head in Philadelphia. Hosted just days before election day, this debate was a defining moment for both candidates. WGN Political Analyst Paul Lisnek provided a detailed breakdown of the key moments and performance analysis of both Harris and Trump.
With sharp exchanges, policy discussions, and some unexpected moments, the evening revealed not only the candidates’ leadership styles but also how they navigate tough questions. Here’s a recap of the most significant moments.
Composure and Nonverbal Communication
Paul Lisnek was quick to point out how each candidate presented themselves visually, aside from their words. The debate was shown via split-screen, giving viewers a good look at every facial expression and gesture. According to Lisnek, Trump struggled to avoid personal attacks, even though focusing on policy would’ve helped his case. His supporters likely appreciated his confrontational style, but this approach didn’t appeal to undecided voters.
Harris, on the other hand, was tasked with linking her background to her policy proposals. Lisnek noted that while some viewers felt she wasn’t clear on her policy agenda, others believed she effectively communicated her plans. Her demeanor was composed and professional throughout, contrasting with Trump’s more aggressive tone.
Trump’s Strategy: It’s Joe Biden, Again
Right from the start, Trump locked in on one target: Joe Biden. He repeatedly brought the current president into the conversation, even though Harris consistently reminded him she was the one on stage. At one point, Trump questioned Biden’s role as president, questioning if Biden even knew he held the office.
Harris responded sharply, reminding Trump who his real opponent was on that night: “You’re not running against Joe Biden. You’re running against me.” Although Trump seemed reluctant to focus solely on Harris, Lisnek noted that moving the conversation backward to Biden felt disconnected from the current debate.
The Race Issue: Trump’s Longstanding Strategy
Race became one of the more contentious issues of the night. Trump revisited a talking point about Harris and her racial heritage, something the moderator immediately asked him to clarify. Trump originally questioned whether Harris was Black, stating he had read conflicting information about her background.
For Harris, this was personal—and a moment to call out how Trump has historically weaponized race to divide the country. She linked Trump’s comments on her identity back to his previous birther conspiracy against Barack Obama. Lisnek pointed out that Trump often targets race when he wants to energize certain voter bases, but Harris was firm in stating that such divisive rhetoric would not take America backward.
Abortion Rights: A Hard Sell for Trump
One of the most heated exchanges came when the topic turned to abortion. Trump attacked what he described as the “radical” stance of Democrats, claiming that certain high-profile figures approve of late-term abortions, even equating it to “execution after birth.”
Harris pushed back hard, focusing on reality rather than rhetoric. She highlighted the Trump administration’s abortion bans, which she framed as cruel, especially to survivors of rape and incest. “A survivor of a crime, a violation to their body, does not have the right to make a decision about what happens to their body,” she declared, calling it immoral. According to Lisnek, Harris owned this policy discussion, framing Trump’s stance as not only out of touch but also dangerous.
While abortion may not top every voter’s list of concerns, it’s a deeply personal issue for many. Lisnek noted that the way Trump framed the issue may resonate with his base, but likely alienated moderate voters.
The Unusual Accusation: Migrants and Pets
Then, there was the moment that left many viewers scratching their heads. Trump repeated a bizarre claim that immigrants in Ohio were eating people’s pets. This claim, apparently, came with no real evidence. Lisnek expressed genuine surprise that the former president would bring up this unfounded accusation during a highly visible debate.
ABC News later confirmed with officials in Springfield, Ohio, that no such reports had surfaced. Lisnek noted that this not only weakened Trump’s credibility but also distracted from more serious issues that voters care about.
Who Came Out on Top?
While the debate may not dramatically shift the electoral landscape, Paul Lisnek believed the night was Harris’ to win or lose. And she didn’t lose. In his analysis, Harris displayed leadership, focused on the future, and maintained clarity on her positions during the debate.
Trump, on the other hand, focused more on attacking Harris and bringing up questionable claims rather than putting forward a clear vision for the future. His supporters likely stood by him, but for undecided voters or those still on the brink, this strategy may not have worked in his favor.
Conclusion
The ABC News Presidential Debate was a crucial moment for both Vice President Harris and former President Trump. Harris leaned into her policy-driven, forward-looking message, while Trump launched fierce attacks, particularly rooted in personal grievances and past controversies.
While both candidates energized their supporters, this debate demonstrated the stark contrast between their visions for America. For undecided voters, Harris showed clear strength in taking charge of the conversation, while Trump, though combative as ever, may have alienated some with his more sensational claims and personal attacks.
Stay tuned for further coverage as this pivotal election season unfolds.
