In the first American presidential debate of the year between the leading Democratic and Republican candidates, President Biden and former President Donald J. Trump clashed on several key issues:
- Inflation
- Taxes
- Ukraine
- The Future of Democracy
- Immigration
- Abortion
A halting performance from Mr. Biden and a relatively steady and measured delivery by Mr. Trump left Democrats deeply concerned about Mr. Biden’s prospects. Personal attacks overshadowed discussions of policy during the debate, with the candidates sparring over who had a better golf game, their respective cognitive abilities, and their legal problems.
On cable news and social media, strategists from both parties wondered if Mr. Biden could continue in the race against Mr. Trump. Few Democrats could muster an upbeat assessment of the president’s performance.
President Joe Biden’s performance has sparked concern among Democrats after he was seen to flounder while articulating points about immigration, abortion, and other key issues. Former President Donald Trump, meanwhile, repeated falsehoods, whipping up concern that immigration would lead to higher crime rates and accusing Democrats of “ripping” babies from the womb.
Trump also deflected when asked if he would honor the results of the 2024 election, saying he would only do so if the results were “free” and “fair.” He then reiterated false claims that he lost the 2020 race to Biden as a result of “fraud.”
Protesters also gathered outside the debate venue in Atlanta, Georgia, to call attention to the US’s role in Israel’s war in Gaza and call on both candidates to push for a ceasefire.
But even after Biden’s uneven performance, Democrats largely rallied around the former president, despite rumblings he should be replaced. Democratic lawmakers and officials have sought to send a message of unity behind President Biden, even while reports emerge that his performance in the debate was viewed with alarm by many within the party. While Donald Trump doubled down on false claims about everything from immigration to his loss in the 2020 election, Joe Biden’s performance could fuel concerns about his age and competency for office.
