Biden vs. Trump: A Debate That Shook Both Sides
The recent TV debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump has stirred significant reactions both in the United States and abroad. The debate, which took place in Atlanta and was broadcasted by CNN, showcased a fierce battle of words and ideologies, leaving many to question the future of the 2024 presidential election.
President Biden's performance was widely criticized, with many pointing out his age and faltering speech as major drawbacks. In a CNN poll, 67% of viewers saw Trump as the winner of the debate. This has led to calls within the Democratic Party for a new candidate to replace Biden. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, a European politician from Germany, emphasized the global impact of the U.S. elections, stating that a renewed presidency of Trump would be a 'historic tragedy.'
Trump's Performance and Its Implications
On the other hand, Trump was seen as more robust and energetic, despite his controversial statements and frequent falsehoods. Former Georgia Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan noted that Trump's delivery was strong, even though his content was riddled with lies and innuendo. Trump's stance on various issues, including his denial of the 2020 election results and his comments on the abortion pill, further polarized the audience.
The debate also highlighted the candidates' positions on foreign policy, particularly regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. Trump accused Biden of speaking like a Palestinian, while Biden emphasized his support for Israel and criticized Trump's handling of the situation. This exchange underscored the deep divisions not only within the U.S. but also in its international relations.
The aftermath of the debate has left the Democratic Party in a state of crisis, with serious discussions about Biden's sustainability as a candidate. Vice-President Kamala Harris attempted to mitigate the damage by focusing on the substance of Biden's policies rather than his debate performance. However, the pressure is mounting as the party contemplates potential alternatives, such as Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, or even a surprise candidate.
- The debate's impact extended beyond the U.S., with German politicians expressing concern over Biden's performance. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann called for the Democrats to react immediately and put forth a stronger candidate to prevent Trump from winning the presidency again.
- In the U.S., the debate has intensified discussions about Biden's age and ability to govern. The New York Times highlighted Biden's struggle to communicate effectively during the debate, raising doubts about his capacity to lead a vigorous campaign. This has fueled speculation about whether Biden should step down and allow another candidate to take his place.
- Former President Trump, despite his strong performance, did not escape criticism. His frequent lies and refusal to accept the 2020 election results were pointed out by various media outlets. Trump's stance on issues like abortion and his handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict also drew significant attention, further polarizing the electorate.
- As the first debate of the 2024 election cycle, this event has set the tone for the coming months. With both candidates facing intense scrutiny, the next debate in September will be crucial. The Democratic Party, in particular, faces the challenge of rallying behind a candidate who can effectively counter Trump's aggressive campaign.
