In a crucial debate held on September 10, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump presented starkly contrasting visions for the United States. The event, occurring less than two months before Election Day, covered pivotal topics such as abortion rights, immigration policies, and the state of American democracy.
Harris, the first female, African American, and Asian American vice president, forcefully addressed the issue of abortion rights. She highlighted the consequences of the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which occurred during Trump's presidency. Harris described scenarios where women faced medical emergencies due to restricted access to care.
"Pregnant women who want to carry a pregnancy to term, suffering from a miscarriage, being denied care in an emergency room because health care providers are afraid they might go to jail and she's bleeding out in a car in the parking lot?"
Trump, the 45th president of the United States, focused on immigration issues, making controversial claims about immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. These statements were promptly fact-checked and refuted by local officials.
The debate also touched on economic policies, with both candidates presenting their plans for the future. Germany's Foreign Office responded to Trump's claims about their energy policies, stating that the country is on track to phase out coal by 2038 and currently generates over 50% of its energy from renewable sources.
Following the debate, both candidates participated in the 23rd anniversary commemoration of the 9/11 attacks in New York City. The solemn event took place at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, where 2,977 lives were lost in 2001. President Joe Biden, Senator JD Vance, and former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg were also present.
A CNN flash poll conducted after the debate indicated that about 60% of viewers believed Harris outperformed Trump. However, the majority of respondents stated that the debate would not affect their voting decision.
In a surprising turn of events, pop superstar Taylor Swift endorsed Harris for president shortly after the debate concluded. Swift, whose recent "Eras Tour" grossed over $1 billion, shared her support on Instagram, potentially influencing her large following of young voters.
As the election approaches, both campaigns are intensifying their efforts to secure votes. The debate and its aftermath have highlighted the deep divisions in American politics and the high stakes of the upcoming election.