Let's Face It, Harris Dominated Trump

The Democratic Party candidate strategized using the ex-president’s tactics – and emerged victorious. Read Full Article at RT.com

Let's Face It, Harris Dominated Trump
The first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris did not serve as a defining truth moment, yet it crucially established the dynamic for the ongoing campaign.

Harris, initially perceived as a weaker debater and besieged by disparaging critiques from her rival, succeeded in significantly outperforming expectations. With confidence and a smile, she effectively shifted the responsibility to answer tough questions onto Trump, a seasoned politician with presidential experience.

Trump appeared unprepared for Harris's assertive approach, caught off guard despite his prior attacks on her supposed lack of mental acumen, a point he struggled to demonstrate during the debate.

Post-debate analyses mostly agreed that Harris came out ahead, though this doesn't fully convey the extent of what occurred.

The victory was not merely due to Harris's increased knowledge or debate skills. It represented a triumph of political strategy.

The debate felt more like a face-off between two competitors from entirely different fields, now competing on a common stage. Trump, with his personalized brand of American nationalism and a non-mainstream approach, contrasts sharply with Harris, who is newer to the high echelons of politics.

Harris, thrust into the fray after Joe Biden was sidelined by the Democrats, seemed initially to be out of her element. However, she has since evolved into a more adept participant, bolstered by substantial support from Democratic backers.

Her performance demonstrated the fruitful results of her campaign's investments. She not only challenged Trump on his lack of an economic agenda but also managed to appropriate his key strengths. Now, it is Trump's challenge to persuade the electorate that he, not Harris, has a better grasp of the economy.

Trump himself has expressed reluctance to engage in another live debate with Harris following their initial encounter, stating he is “less inclined” to do so after the result.

The debate left many questions about America's future directions unanswered and highlighted the lack of substantive discourse. However, it was a defining moment for Harris, who cemented her lead in the race.

This article, originally published by Kommersant, was translated and edited by the RT team.

Navid Kalantari for TROIB News