DEBATE REPLAY: VP Harris and former President Trump l ABC News Presidential Debate

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are meeting face-to-face for the first time in a pivotal presidential debate. The race has dramatically shifted with President Biden's exit, leaving Trump and Harris nearly tied in polls nationally and in key battleground states like Pennsylvania.

With election day drawing closer, the debate begins with a focus on the economy and cost of living. Harris advocates an "opportunity economy," offering middle-class tax reductions and support for small businesses. She criticizes Trump's tax policies, claiming they benefit billionaires at the expense of the middle class.

Trump refutes Harris's claims about a sales tax, instead highlighting his tariff policies and blaming inflation and a surge in crime on the current administration. He takes credit for a strong economy during his tenure, despite pandemic-driven setbacks, and criticizes the increase in illegal immigration affecting jobs.

Harris counters by attributing economic downturns, a pandemic mishandling, and a threat to democracy as Trump's legacy. She accuses him of spreading lies and divisiveness and warns of Project 2025, a supposed Trump plan with dangerous implications.

In a heated exchange, Trump dismisses the notion of Project 2025, reiterating his focus on tax cuts and economic growth. He criticizes Harris and the Biden administration for weaponizing governmental power against him. Harris emphasizes unity and the need for leadership that puts citizens first.

The debate shifts focus to tariffs with Trump asserting that the cost would fall on foreign countries, not American consumers, contrary to Harris's warnings. Harris emphasizes the negative impacts of Trump's trade policies, including a worsening trade deficit and facilitating China's military growth.

As Trump reiterates allegations of a 'Marxist' agenda by Harris and the Biden administration, Harris criticizes Trump's approach to immigration and his handling of COVID-19, urging for more humane and effective solutions. Immigration becomes a key point of contention.

Addressing immigration further, Trump outlines an expansive deportation strategy, claiming it necessary to counteract crime and economic impacts from illegal immigration. Harris condemns Trump for fear-mongering, emphasizing her enforcement experience and call for bipartisan immigration reform.

Regarding reproductive rights, Harris challenges Trump's approach to abortion laws, highlighting the restrictive measures in place after Roe v. Wade's overturning. Trump insists on exceptions for certain cases but focuses on returning control to states, while denying intentions for a national ban.

Harris argues Trump's past and expected stance will lead to a national abortion ban, warning of the dangers of his potential re-election on women's rights. Trump denies plans for a ban, framing the issue as resolved state-by-state, while avoiding federal intervention through veto promises.

Trump is asked about his role and response during the January 6 incident, dismissing responsibility, and instead deflecting blame to Nancy Pelosi. Harris condemns Trump's actions on January 6, emphasizing the importance of maintaining democratic principles and leadership that unites.

The debate on Ukraine and Russia sees Trump criticising current administration's actions, claiming he could resolve the conflict swiftly. Harris defends the current support for Ukraine, criticising Trump's past remarks and aligning herself with international democratic principles.

On foreign policy, Trump asserts he commands respect from global leaders, contrasting it with Harris's portrayal of him as a threat. Harris counters by underscoring Trump's alliances with authoritarian figures and the potential global ramifications of his presidency.

The topic of climate change highlights Harris's commitment to investing in a clean energy economy, while Trump reiterates his skepticism about climate change and focuses on traditional energy policies. Both candidates illustrate differing visions towards environmental policies.

Throughout the debate, tensions rise as both candidates persistently attack each other's records and policies, with Trump focusing on economic criticisms, and Harris spotlighting social issues and Trump's alleged divisiveness.

As the debate progresses, the candidates become increasingly combative, with Trump refuting allegations about his leadership and Harris emphasizing policy consistency. The moderator struggles to maintain order amidst frequent interruptions.

Concluding statements from both candidates encapsulate their campaign promises, with Harris promising progressive reforms and Trump pledging a return to previous successes. The audience is left to contemplate their starkly opposing visions for America.

Post-debate analysis highlights the intensity of the exchanges, with pundits weighing in on each candidate's performance. Harris is perceived to have been well-prepared, focusing on a hopeful narrative, whereas Trump emphasized his critique of the current administration.

Pundits note the historic nature of the debate, focusing on the implications of each candidate's policy proposals and their potential impact on pivotal swing state voters.

The debate triggers diverse reactions, with commentators debating the effectiveness of each candidate's strategy, particularly in swaying undecided voters in key battleground areas.

The discussion on social media reflects the divide among the public, with each side claiming victory for their candidate. Analysts suggest this debate could influence voter turnout and engagement as election day nears.