In their first presidential debate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican contender Donald Trump clashed over key issues including abortion rights, the economy, immigration, and the Israel-Gaza conflict. The debate featured heated exchanges, with both candidates taking personal shots at one another. Harris criticized Trump for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy, while Trump boasted about the nation’s economic performance under his administration.

One of the most tense moments came when Harris attacked Trump’s stance on abortion, accusing him of supporting a national abortion ban without exceptions for rape or incest. Trump denied this, leading to a live fact-check by the moderators on the legality of late-term abortions in the U.S.

On immigration, Trump raised a controversial claim that immigrants were eating pets in Ohio, which was quickly fact-checked by the moderators. Harris responded by pointing out Trump’s criminal record, including his involvement in inciting the January 6 Capitol riots, and highlighting her administration's efforts on border management.

The candidates also sparred over foreign policy. Harris criticized Trump’s relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and his approach to the Russia-Ukraine war, while Trump blamed Harris for failing to prevent the conflict. The ongoing Israel-Gaza war also became a focal point, with Trump claiming the war would not have started if he were still president, and Harris defending her stance on supporting Israel.

The debate took a personal turn when Harris claimed world leaders were laughing at Trump, while Trump alleged that President Joe Biden “hated” her. The debate is expected to have significant influence as the presidential race enters its final two months, with both candidates targeting voters in key swing states.

While the two engaged in sharp exchanges throughout the debate, it began on a civil note, with both candidates shaking hands— a gesture that was notably absent from the earlier debate between Trump and President Biden.