In a recent Univision town hall Donald Trump faced a tricky question: name three virtues of his Democratic rival Kamala Harris. This query came roughly a week after Harris was asked to do the same for the Republican nominee
Trump started by saying‚ “Thats a very hard question“ He then went on to say that Harris had “harmed our country horribly“ but complimented her “ability to survive“. Trump added‚ “Because she was out of the race and all of a sudden shes running for president“ referring to Harris early exit from the 2020 Democratic campaign and her replacement of Joe Biden as the 2024 nominee a few months back
He also noted that “she seems to have some pretty long-time friendships“ and “she seems to have a nice way about her“ Trump continued‚ “I like the way you know‚ some of her statements some of her — the way she behaves in a certain way“ But he quickly added “But in another way I think its very bad for our country“
This exchange mirrors Harris response when asked about Trump a week earlier. She mentioned his love for family but admitted “I dont really know him I only met him one time...so I dont really have much more to offer you“
The question was posed by Teresa Djedjro (48) who attended both events. Its part of a presidential tradition that sometimes leads to memorable moments. However in this tense election where both sides have called the other a threat to democracy neither candidate seems eager to offer genuine compliments
This recalls a similar exchange 8 years ago between Trump and Hillary Clinton where they managed to find some positive things to say about each other despite their disagreements