Democrats, Republicans react to presidential debate

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - A debate that started cordial gradually became more contentious between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris.

“Donald Trump was fired by 81 million people,” Harris said. “So let’s be clear about that. And clearly he is having a very difficult time processing that.”

As Harris attacked Trump, calling him weak on foreign policy and highlighting his criminal record, Trump looked to contrast his policy with the Biden administration. Trump also hit Harris on moving toward the middle.

“She’s going to my philosophy now,” Trump said. In fact, I was going to send her a MAGA hat.”

Republicans accused the moderators of taking sides in a debate many analysts consider to be “won” by Harris.

But they also argue Trump was smart to highlight policy differences.

“What Donald Trump did at every possible juncture is he moved back to the border,” Rep. Byron Donalds, R-FL, said. “He moved back to immigration. He moved back to inflation and the economy, and to the reckless, terrible job done by Kamala Harris and Joe Biden.”

Democrats were impressed with Harris’ demeanor and poise, going toe to toe with one of the fiercest political opponents of the century.

“We’ve got a person who looked presidential in Kamala Harris,” North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said. “She made a convincing case that we need a new way forward. That we do need to turn the page on Donald Trump.”

There is currently not a second debate scheduled between Trump and Harris.

The Vice presidential debate is scheduled for October first

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