Factbox: Reactions to Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s Debate Performances

By Alexandra Ulmer and Jarrett Renshaw

Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and her Republican challenger Donald Trump faced off on Tuesday in their first presidential debate for the 2024 election. Here are some reactions from political strategists, politicians, and donors:

MARC SHORT, FORMER CHIEF OF STAFF TO VP PENCE:
"Trump missed an opportunity to stay focused on critiquing the Biden-Harris administration regarding the economy and border issues. Instead, he responded to distractions about election denialism and bizarre claims about pets. Harris effectively maintained a presidential demeanor, while Trump failed to highlight her historically radical positions. The implications may be seen in competitive House races."

KAREN FINNEY, DEMOCRATIC STRATEGIST:
"This will be remembered as one of the most impressive debate performances in modern politics. The Vice President achieved her goals by articulating her vision and policy ideas, drawing a clear contrast with Trump, while allowing him to unravel. He was disjointed and spread misinformation faster than fact-checkers could keep pace."

CHRIS BORICK, POLITICAL SCIENCE PROFESSOR AND POLLSTER:
"I doubt the debate will significantly impact polling. Both candidates adhered closely to their strategies. Harris managed to provoke Trump, but he generally stuck to his intended messages."

RON BONJEAN, REPUBLICAN STRATEGIST:
"While Harris effectively provoked Trump with her prepared attacks, it’s unclear if she persuaded undecided voters. The key question is whether she made any substantial impact. However, Trump did himself no favors by participating in this debate."

MATTHEW KLINK, REPUBLICAN STRATEGIST:
"We didn’t learn anything new about Kamala Harris. She wasn’t pressed by the moderators on inconsistencies in her positions, which is something Trump should have done but failed to focus on. As a result, she came across as more adept. While it might not change the overall landscape, she handled the pressure well and displayed presidential qualities."

AMY KOCH, REPUBLICAN STRATEGIST:
"Trump clearly prepared for this debate, maintaining focus for the most part—aside from his odd comments regarding pets. He missed a crucial chance to address immigration issues."

ERICK ERICKSON, CONSERVATIVE COMMENTATOR:
"Trump lost the debate, and complaining about the moderators won’t change that. His performance, not theirs, determined the outcome."

DAN EBERHART, REPUBLICAN DONOR:
"I saw one true commander in chief on stage. Trump appeared focused, strong, and in control of the issues."

JEREMI SURI, PROFESSOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND HISTORY:
"Harris delivered an outstanding performance, emphasizing key issues such as abortion and American leadership while effectively challenging Trump. He appeared defensive and angry, which was evident throughout the debate."

WHIT AYRES, REPUBLICAN POLLSTER:
"After tonight, I doubt Trump will be eager to participate in another debate."