What to expect from first US presidential debate?

The campaign for the 2024 US presidential election is well in motion, and all eyes are now on one of the most important events that could give a new turn to the course of this the first debate between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump.

Scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 9:00 PM local time, the debate promises to be a seminal moment during this election cycle. With both candidates ready to go head-to-head on the biggest of stages, here's what to expect from the biggest event in town.

The impending debate is set against the dramatic turns of events that have engulfed the Democratic presidential race. President Joe Biden's exit from the election, following an insipid debate against Trump back in June, now has Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee taking centre stage.

Given that Biden trailed in the polls and his campaign sputtered, a good performance by Harris in this debate is paramount for her candidacy and, by extension, for the Democratic Party's chances in the November election.

The debate presents an opportunity for Trump to solidify his position as the Republican frontrunner and dampen the lingering doubts within his campaign. The debate is scheduled for 90 minutes and will take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia with ABC News anchors David Moyer and Lynsey Davis moderating the discussion.

The debate will consist of the same format as prior presidential debates, whereby each candidate will have an opportunity to answer the moderators' questions, then followed by a one-minute rebuttal given to the opposing candidate. It is to make sure that the exchange of ideas is given fairly and interruptions at a minimum.

For months, both candidates have been sharpening up in view of contentious debates of the past, including the June face-off of Biden versus Trump. Harris has engaged herself in mock debates, practicing with a stand-in Trump to perfect her responses and approach. Trump has focused on policy briefings and strategic advisement, opting to skip mock debates with Harris.

Key issues and expected highlights


1. Climate change and environmental policy

Climate change and environmental policy are still some of the most important subjects for many electors. That is why the position of the Democratic candidate on these topics will come under significant scrutiny, not least because Harris has placed such emphasis on them in her campaign. Harris will likely present her vision regarding climate change, possibly mentioning a strategy toward renewable energy, environmental regulation, and international climate agreements.

Trump has faced many criticisms regarding his environmental policies since the beginning of his presidency, and he may face even more critical scrutiny over his stand on climate change. His responses likely will rest on deregulation and economic arguments, pitting his approach against Harris's more aggressive climate agenda.

2. Immigration and border security

Immigration will continue to be a hot-button issue, and both candidates will likely debate on policy considerations relating to border security, asylum processes, and immigration reform. Harris may insist that the country needs a more humane and orderly way of dealing with immigration to complement the policy of the Biden administration. For his part, Trump most likely will re-assert his hardline policy consideration of border security and immigration enforcement to protect the country's national security and economy.

3. Crime and law enforcement

With growing concerns about crime rates across various cities, the debate is likely to delve deep into law enforcement policies and criminal justice reform. Harris, as a former Attorney General, would likely advocate for reforms that meet her long-standing demands to cut racial disparities and make police more accountable. Trump is likely to brag about his support for law enforcement and his administration's success in terms of lower crime rates, positioning himself as a strong supporter of public safety.

4. Healthcare

Health care continues to be one of the top issues for voters as the COVID-19 pandemic persists. Harris will likely discuss her health care expansion plans, including her support for the ACA and any new initiatives she might propose aimed at improving public health. On the flip side, Trump's health care agenda will likely focus on his administration's efforts to reduce drug prices and open up more free-market competition in the healthcare marketplace.

Current polls and public perception

Present polls indicate a tight race between Harris and Trump, with undecided voters still to be convinced either way. Take a New York Times poll that indicates Trump now leads by a slender 47.48% support, whereas Harris enjoys an infinitesimal advantage in key battleground states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. These are the places that will matter when it comes to determining the election.

This debate is seen as a chance for Harris to be better recognized by the American electorate. In fact, an unprecedented 28% of Americans would like to learn more about Harris, against only 9% for Trump. This suggests an opportunity for Harris to solidify her public image and put to rest some of the uncertainties that surround her candidacy.

It will likely also be one of the hotbeds of interest in the media, as a good amount of post-debate analysis and commentary will be done. Both are likely to use this debate to contest claims against the other and firm up their policy positions. The contrast provided by Trump's often provocative style and Harris's measured approach makes for a compelling match and enhances the significance of this debate.

Voter sentiment

The outcome of the debate may dramatically change the tide in the minds of the voters and unfasten those voters who are undecided. She is expected to come across and be satisfied with her ability to connect with the electorate, articulate policies, and to put questions to Trump's claims. This debate allows Trump to reassert his leadership, and appease his base, while he tries to undermine Harris's candidacy.

First Presidential Debate Between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump-September 2024 The presidential debate will be one of the most-watched, highest-stakes events in political history. Both nominees have been preparing for months, and with the stakes higher than ever, this could very well be one of the defining moments of the election campaign.

As a nation tunes in, voters will be expecting concise, convincing arguments and a message about the future of the country. How Harris and Trump manage this very important debate will likely affect the final push toward Election Day and may even determine how American politics will be oriented for years to come.