President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate, exchanging insults and accusations of lying while discussing a range of issues, from the economy to reproductive rights to foreign policy. Both men attacked each other’s credibility and truthfulness, with Biden accusing Trump of saying derogatory things about veterans and Trump bringing up the conviction of Biden’s son on federal gun charges.
The debate, moderated by CNN’s Dana Bash and Jake Tapper, saw moments of acrimony despite efforts to minimize crosstalk. Trump and Biden disagreed sharply on abortion rights, with Trump supporting the recent Supreme Court decision on mifepristone and Biden advocating for reinstating protections under Roe v. Wade.
The two candidates also clashed over the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, with Trump downplaying the violence and insinuating that the perpetrators were “patriotic,” while Biden accused Trump of encouraging the attack and wanting to commute the sentences of those involved.
The debate marked the first time a convicted felon, Trump, participated in a presidential debate, with the former president denying his guilt and defending his actions. The two candidates will have another debate in September, hosted by ABC News.
Overall, the debate showcased the deep divide between the two candidates on a wide range of issues, setting the stage for a contentious presidential campaign.
Source
Photo credit tennesseelookout.com