The first presidential debate of the 2024 election season featured Joe Biden and Donald Trump, each aiming to sway undecided voters. Biden, the 81-year-old Democratic incumbent, sought to assure voters of his leadership capabilities amid ongoing challenges. Trump, 78, aimed to move beyond his recent felony conviction in New York and show he has the temperament for a second term.
Here are the key moments from the US presidential debate in Atlanta, which was also CNN’s first time hosting a general election debate:
No Handshakes:
The two candidates, who have a well-known disdain for each other, did not shake hands as they approached their podiums. Biden frequently referred to Trump as “this guy” during his remarks. They had not spoken since their last debate before the 2020 election, and Trump skipped Biden’s inauguration following his unsuccessful effort to overturn his loss, which led to the January 6 Capitol insurrection.
Inflation Defense:
Biden, addressing the first question, defended his handling of rising inflation, attributing the situation to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic under Trump. His voice was hoarse, and he cleared his throat twice during his initial response, while Trump smirked.
Verbal Missteps:
In the debate’s early minutes, Biden made several verbal errors, struggling with a raspy voice and halting delivery. He seemed to lose his train of thought while discussing the national debt, mistakenly referring to “billionaires” as “trillionaires” before correcting himself. While advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy, he paused awkwardly and ended his thought incoherently.
Hostility and Personal Attacks:
The debate was marked by personal attacks and accusations. Biden called Trump a convicted felon and criticized his morals. Trump retorted by questioning Biden’s physical fitness and boasting about his own vitality.
Ukraine Conflict:
In a heated exchange about the war in Ukraine, Biden labeled Vladimir Putin a “war criminal” aiming to revive the Soviet empire, questioning what would happen to Poland, Belarus, and NATO countries if Putin succeeded in Ukraine.
Controversial Comments:
Biden revisited a controversial moment from Trump’s presidency, accusing him of calling fallen US soldiers “losers and suckers.” He defended his late son, saying, “My son was not a loser and not a sucker. You’re the sucker. You’re the loser.” Trump denied ever making the comment.
Golf Challenge:
On a lighter note, Trump mocked Biden’s golfing abilities, claiming he couldn’t hit a ball 50 yards. Biden responded by offering to have a driving contest, touting his handicap from his vice-presidency days. Trump scoffed at Biden’s claim, doubting his swing.
