House Republicans Express Dismay Over Trump's Debate Performance, Privately Acknowledging Missed Opportunities

Several House Republican lawmakers granted anonymity expressed frustration and disappointment with former President Trump's performance in his debate against Vice President Kamala Harris, acknowledging that he missed opportunities to effectively attack Harris and tout his own record.

Exclusive reporting has revealed deep frustration among House Republicans regarding former President Trump's debate performance against Vice President Kamala Harris. Several lawmakers, granted anonymity to speak freely, acknowledged that Trump "missed" opportunities to effectively engage with Harris and showcase his own accomplishments.

A senior House Republican described the debate as "terrible," acknowledging that it was a common sentiment within the House Republican Conference. They expressed concern that Trump allowed Harris to "bait" him on multiple occasions.

House Republicans Express Dismay Over Trump's Debate Performance, Privately Acknowledging Missed Opportunities

Another GOP lawmaker went even further, calling the debate a "dumpster fire" for the former president. They noted that Trump's appearance alongside Harris made him look older and weaker in comparison to his previous debate with President Biden.

Despite shrugging off the debate's ultimate effect on the election, one lawmaker expressed concern that it could sway undecided voters. They argued that Harris's ability to "get under" Trump's skin could resonate with moderates.

House Republicans Express Dismay Over Trump's Debate Performance, Privately Acknowledging Missed Opportunities

Republicans agreed that Harris "did well" and that Trump's policies and record were far stronger than hers. However, they lamented that Trump failed to effectively convey these strengths during the debate.

"While he made many [good] points, she was able to slide out of every one of those arguments," one Republican stated. They emphasized the need to treat Harris as a formidable opponent rather than dismissing her as cognitively impaired.

House Republicans Express Dismay Over Trump's Debate Performance, Privately Acknowledging Missed Opportunities

Another lawmaker expressed dismay at Trump's inability to highlight Harris's perceived weaknesses, noting that it was his own "fault" if he allowed her to bait him.

A sixth GOP lawmaker simply smiled sheepishly, acknowledging missed opportunities but declined to elaborate.

House Republicans Express Dismay Over Trump's Debate Performance, Privately Acknowledging Missed Opportunities

Despite the private criticism, the majority of House Republicans who spoke publicly praised Trump's performance. Speaker Mike Johnson declared victory for the ex-president, while Rep. Matt Gaetz, who assisted Trump with debate preparation, lauded his "great job."

Trump himself posted on his Truth Social account, claiming a "BIG WIN" in the debate. However, the Trump campaign's official statement focused on Harris's "abysmal record of failure" and highlighted Trump's "bold vision" for America.

In conclusion, House Republicans privately expressed frustration and disappointment over Trump's debate performance, acknowledging missed opportunities to effectively attack Harris and tout his own record. While some shrugged off the debate's impact on the election, others expressed concern that it could sway undecided voters in favor of Harris.