The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring

On Tuesday night, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris will face off in a highly anticipated presidential debate. The stakes are high, with many voters still undecided and the race a dead heat in several key swing states. Harris, who has avoided public scrutiny for much of her campaign, faces pressure to define herself and convince voters of her leadership abilities. Trump, on the other hand, needs to appeal to voters who support his policies but dislike his personality.

On Tuesday night, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris will face off in a highly anticipated presidential debate. The stakes are sky-high, with many voters still undecided and the race a dead heat in several crucial swing states.

The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring

Harris faces a significant challenge in Tuesday's debate. She has largely avoided public scrutiny throughout her campaign, refusing solo interviews or press conferences. She has also neglected to post any policy positions on her campaign website. Consequently, a significant number of voters still need to learn more about her.

Harris must convince voters that she understands the economy, the border crisis, and the crime surge. She must also articulate her policy positions clearly and effectively, especially regarding progressive issues on which she has flip-flopped.

The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring

Trump, on the other hand, needs to appeal to voters who support his policies but dislike his personality. A recent survey found that voters are more likely to agree with Trump on issues, such as the economy and immigration, but prefer Biden's personal behavior.

Trump must stick to his policy agenda and tout facts confirming the real income and employment gains made under his presidency. He must also blast Biden and Harris for igniting inflation through reckless government spending.

The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring

Harris's team has engaged in considerable bickering about the debate rules, especially regarding whether each candidate's microphone will be muted during their opponent's speaking time. Harris wants mics left open, likely to reprise her moment during the 2020 vice presidential debate when she reprimanded Mike Pence for talking over her.

However, this bickering reveals Harris's fear that policy will be the focal point of the debate. She wants voters to focus on optics and personal attacks. This strategy is unlikely to be successful, as voters are eager to hear about her policy positions and her vision for the country.

The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring

The Times/Siena poll shows Trump leading Harris by one point, which is bad news for Democrats. In September 2020, the same poll showed Joe Biden ahead of Trump by eight points. Also concerning for Harris, over 60% of respondents agree that "the next president should represent a major change from Joe Biden."

The debate on Tuesday night will be a significant turning point in the election. Both candidates have much to prove and gain. Harris needs to define herself as a leader with clear and consistent policy positions. Trump needs to appeal to voters who support his policies but dislike his personality. The stakes are soaring, and only time will tell who will emerge victorious.

The Great Debate: Trump vs. Harris, Stakes Soaring