Post-Debate Analysis: Trump vs. Harris
Victor Davis Hanson provides an analysis of the presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris that took place on September 10, 2024. The Harris campaign was ecstatic after the debate, as many believed Harris had emerged victorious. This was due to the fact that she stuck to her pre-debate preparation and was able to maintain her composure throughout the debate.
Harris's Strategy
Harris's strategy was threefold. Firstly, she baited Trump with criticisms about his failed rallies, accusations of racism, and his shaky businesses. This was done in an attempt to provoke him into losing his cool and going off-topic. Secondly, she avoided thinking on her feet and instead responded with prepared anecdotes and stories, regardless of the question asked. Lastly, the Harris campaign relied on the debate moderators to fact-check Trump but not Harris, demand follow-up answers from Trump, ask Trump provocative questions, and interrupt him to throw him off his rhythm.
Post-Debate Polls and Reactions
The immediate post-debate polls showed that the public believed Harris had won the debate. However, despite this perceived victory, the polls remained mostly even and Harris did not receive the large bounce in popularity that was anticipated. This led to Harris requesting another debate, which some interpreted as a sign of confidence, while others saw it as an indication that she felt she needed another chance to derail Trump.
Debate Aftermath
In the days following the debate, other realities began to emerge. As clips of the debate were replayed, few favorable soundbites from Harris were found. Instead, viewers saw Harris's avoidance of both the moderators and Trump and her inability to provide clear answers to key questions. This led to the perception that Harris was slick and smooth, but ultimately empty and shallow.
Post-Debate Controversies
After the debate, controversies arose regarding the moderators' bias and the relationships between Harris, the moderators, and ABC. The moderators were criticized for fact-checking Trump but not Harris, and for their own fact-checks needing to be fact-checked. Furthermore, it was revealed that Harris and one of the moderators were national sorority sisters, and that a senior Disney executive who oversees ABC has been a long-time friend and contributor to Harris's campaigns.
Debate Rumors and Conspiracies
Following the debate, rumors and conspiracies began to circulate. These included claims that Harris was wearing high-tech receiver earrings to receive prompts from her off-stage handlers, that she had been given the debate questions in advance, and that Trump was the true winner of the debate. While no evidence has been provided to support these allegations, the fact that they have gained traction is a testament to the perceived bias of the debate.
Bottom Line
The aftermath of this debate has raised questions about the fairness and integrity of televised debates. The perceived bias of the moderators and the subsequent rumors and conspiracies have tarnished the credibility of the debate. As a result, it is suggested that conservatives should avoid participating in televised debates on certain networks. Instead, debates should adhere to classical rules with only mute timekeepers present.
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