In a heated TV debate, Harris and Trump present sharply contrasting visions on issues like healthcare and economy

The 2024 presidential race is shaping up to be one of the most intense and polarised in US history. At the forefront of this political battle is a head-to-head TV debate between two defining figures—Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Their exchange, filled with sharp contrasts in policy, tone, and vision for America, laid bare the deep ideological divide within the nation. Vice President Kamala Harris took the stage emphasising unity, justice, and inclusivity. Known for her dynamic speaking style and sharp prosecutorial background, she framed her narrative as one that focuses on healing America's divisions while pushing for progressive reforms. Harris reiterated her commitment to building a more equitable society, focusing on issues such as healthcare reform, boost to small businesses, climate action, and women's rights to make choices about themselves. One of her most resonant points during the debate was her advocacy for women's reproductive rights, which she positioned as not just a women's issue but a fundamental human right. However, Harris’s challenges lie in overcoming the perception of being too liberal for moderate voters.

On the other hand, Donald Trump, came out swinging with a populist message centred on nationalism, economic protectionism, and anti-establishment rhetoric. Trump focused on border security, economic growth, and energy independence, tapping into the concerns of many rural and working-class Americans who have felt left behind in the evolving global economy. At one point in time, he called Harris a Marxist implying her left-of-centre agenda. Trump's ability to connect with his base through a straightforward approach remains his powerful asset. His rhetoric around deregulation and America-first policies resonated with voters who see him as a champion of their economic interests. However, in most of the debate, he looked less confident and defensive, unlike his debate with Joe Biden where he was more aggressive. Besides, he was floored by Kamala’s facts that he was criticised by his staff and even Republicans including Dick Chenny were rooting for her. His handling of key issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and the January 6 Capitol riot also came up in the debate which further receded his confidence and put him on the backfoot. The big question is who resonates more with the people and who would eventually win. Right now, it looks like a fair competition but with Kamala having a slight edge, though it would be folly to disregard Trump’s fanbase and constituency which is proactive and loud. Many of the cherished goals of Kamala like climate action, Israel policy, and Gun policy do not go down well with many Americans who would be looking up to Trump as their representative. Trump, continues to resonate with a significant portion of the American population—particularly white, rural, and working-class—who feel disconnected from the progressive direction the country has taken in recent years. His simplistic ideas may not work but they do sway people.