In a rematch between two longstanding rivals, the recent debate offered a sleek opportunity to iron out rumpled pieces and gain momentum heading into the November elections. Yet, it ended in a fiasco for the Democrats, leaving businessman Donald Trump with a clear path forward.
This historic debate, however, may well find its place in the dustbin of history. It was marred by pauses, faux pas, and moments of rambling that left the Democratic candidate, Joe Biden, looking like the fall guy.
Biden struggled to articulate his points on several occasions, fumbling for words and appearing uncertain. Trump, on the other hand, seized every opportunity to land blows on his opponent. At one point, Biden misspoke, saying, “We finally beat Medicare,” a gaffe that quickly went viral.
Many observers likened the debate to a car crash, fueling concerns about Biden’s age and competency for office. In contrast, the Republican candidate, Donald Trump, who once led the United States, seemed fully in control. Trump repeatedly attacked Biden on the economy and foreign policy, while Biden aimed at Trump’s criminal convictions and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election.
The debate saw heated exchanges on global conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, immigration, abortion, and threats to US democracy. It took place at an unusual point in the election cycle, before either candidate had been officially named their party’s nominee. Both Trump and Biden pushed for an earlier debate to reach voters before early voting begins in September.
With Biden grappling with the challenges of age, and Trump facing criminal indictments in Georgia and Washington, DC, over his alleged attempts to subvert the 2020 election results, the stakes could not be higher.
With less than six months until the presidential election, the June 27 debate has proven to be a significant moment for voters deciding whether to continue with the Democrat or bring back Trump.
– Dulu Simas ( Dulu is a co-author at Jmash )
