Washington: US Vice President Kamala Harris is set to face a pivotal moment in her political career on Wednesday morning (6:30 a.m. IST) when she debates former President Donald Trump, her Republican rival for the 2024 White House race. This debate, broadcast live on ABC News, will be crucial for Harris, who recently ascended to the top of the Democratic ticket following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal after a poor performance in the initial presidential debate.
Harris, despite her current role as Vice President and prior service in the US Senate, remains relatively unknown in the national spotlight. This debate represents her first opportunity to define her candidacy against Trump, a seasoned debater with extensive experience from previous presidential debates.
Trump, who is participating in his seventh presidential debate, will seek to overcome a challenging period marked by Biden’s exit and Harris’s rising popularity. Harris has successfully narrowed Trump’s lead in polls and energized the Democratic base, which was previously uninspired by Biden. According to recent polls, Harris is either leading or tied with Trump in several battleground states.
The debate is expected to draw significant viewership, similar to the June debate between Biden and Harris, which was watched by 30 million Americans. Both candidates aim to use the debate to strengthen their case for the presidency and discredit their opponent.
Harris is known for her sharp debating style, having made headlines during the 2019 Democratic primaries and in her vice-presidential debate against Mike Pence. Trump, also a combative debater, is expected to focus on key Republican issues like the economy, immigration, and global instability, though his tendency for personal attacks could alienate independent voters.
Trump will also face questions on abortion, a sensitive topic where he has tried to balance his MAGA base’s stance with the preferences of independent voters and moderate Republicans. Meanwhile, Harris has shifted her position on fracking, now supporting it due to its economic importance in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state.
With Harris’s limited unscripted public appearances and Trump’s frequent media engagements, the debate will be a critical test for both candidates as they seek to convince voters of their qualifications and vision for the country.
