Kamala Harris vs Donald Trump: Issues & stakes

In a highly anticipated showdown, United States Vice President Kamala Harris will face off against former President Donald Trump in the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle. The debate, happening today at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, is being seen as one of the most significant events of the campaign, especially following President Joe Biden's decision to step down from the race. With both candidates holding high stakes, this debate could mark a turning point in US politics.

Setting the stage: A unique political battle

This debate presents a stark contrast between two figures representing very different political ideologies and leadership styles. For Harris, this is a moment to step out of Biden’s shadow and assert her leadership while making the case that she is ready to lead the nation. Trump, on the other hand, is looking to reclaim the presidency and solidify his grip on the Republican base, particularly in the face of multiple legal challenges and controversies.

Harris will be on the defensive, as Trump is expected to focus on the failures of the Biden administration, such as inflation and immigration issues. Meanwhile, Harris might aim to highlight Trump’s impeachment trials and legal struggles, along with his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic during his term.

What’s at stake for Harris

For Harris, this debate serves as her moment to establish her credentials as a capable leader independent of Biden. While Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race gave Harris a clearer path to the Democratic nomination, she still faces a tough challenge in winning over centrist and swing voters. Harris’ critics often question her political instincts and ability to connect with voters, making this debate a crucial opportunity to present herself as a strong alternative to Trump.

One of Harris’ major challenges will be differentiating herself from Biden’s policies while defending the administration’s accomplishments. This is especially important when it comes to economic recovery from the pandemic, climate change policies and international relations. In past appearances, Harris has struggled to deliver crisp, memorable soundbites — something her team has likely prepped for extensively.

Trump’s strategy: Reasserting dominance

Trump, despite facing legal battles on multiple fronts, continues to dominate the Republican field. However, this debate is an opportunity for him to remind the nation why he was elected in 2016, especially by focusing on his populist themes of economic nationalism, law and order, and “America First” policies. Trump is expected to critique Harris and the Democratic Party for what he’ll likely frame as a failure to manage the economy, illegal immigration, and rising crime rates.

Trump also thrives in unscripted moments, often using brash humour and unexpected lines of attack to unsettle his opponents. Harris, who tends to be more methodical, will need to prepare for Trump’s unpredictable debate style, which often focuses less on policy details and more on showmanship.

Key issues expected to dominate the debate

1. Economy and inflation: Expect both candidates to clash over the state of the US economy. Trump will likely highlight the Biden administration’s handling of inflation and rising living costs, while Harris will point to the recovery efforts and job growth numbers that have emerged over the past few years.

2. Immigration: Immigration policy is sure to be a key issue. Trump will double down on his hardline stance, critiquing Harris for what he will call “open borders”. Harris, in contrast, will stress reform policies that balance border security with humane immigration solutions.

3. Healthcare and Covid-19: Trump’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic will undoubtedly be a flashpoint. Harris may use this to underscore Trump’s mismanagement, while Trump is likely to focus on the rapid development of vaccines during his administration.

4. Law and order: Given Trump’s appeal to law-and-order voters, he will likely bring up crime rates and the ongoing debate around police reform. Harris, being a former prosecutor, will walk a fine line between advocating for police reform and maintaining support from progressive voters without alienating moderates.

What viewers can expect

People can expect a combative and intense debate. Trump thrives in chaotic environments and will likely try to unsettle Harris by constantly interrupting and shifting the narrative to his key talking points. Harris will need to remain calm, focused and assertive to counteract Trump’s barrage. 

Both candidates have much to gain — and lose. For Harris, it is a question of proving her mettle as a national leader while Trump is trying to remind voters of the “Trumpian” style that once propelled him to the White House.

A debate that could reshape the race

The Kamala Harris-Donald Trump debate has the potential to reshape the narrative of the 2024 presidential election. With Harris trying to carve out her space as a leader for the post-Biden Democratic Party and Trump seeking to overcome the legal and political hurdles that threaten his comeback, this debate promises to be a defining moment. 

Ultimately, the debate’s impact will depend on who manages to control the narrative and sway undecided voters. If Harris can stay composed and highlight her policy strengths while avoiding Trump’s rhetorical traps, she might have a chance to define her leadership. Conversely, Trump’s unpredictability and command of his base could once again make him the dominant figure in the political landscape. All eyes will be on Philadelphia tonight as these two political heavyweights go head-to-head.