This story at a glance…

1. Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will face off in their only debate of the 2024 campaign.

2. Trump hopes to keep his cool, while Harris aims to expose his weaknesses, both hunting for that perfect viral moment.

3. Expect heated exchanges on the economy, immigration, and the legacy of the Biden administration.

4. With early voting around the corner, this debate could set the tone for the final stretch of the election season.

What to Expect in the Trump vs Harris Debate

Get your popcorn ready, folks! This Tuesday night promises a political showdown unlike any other. Former President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to face off in their only debate of the 2024 campaign season. With early voting just around the corner, the stakes couldn’t be higher, promising a night of fireworks, surprises, and perhaps a few viral moments. Here’s what to keep an eye on as the candidates go head-to-head in what could be a defining moment of their political careers.

Will Trump Turn Over a New Leaf?
Trump is known for his boisterous debate style—remember the heated 2020 debate with Joe Biden where it felt more like a wrestling match than a political discussion? Trump knows he needs to avoid a repeat of that night, but whether he can restrain his temper, especially against Harris, is another matter entirely. Trump’s team is urging him to stay focused on issues like the economy, immigration, and global challenges.

Harris on the Defensive?
Kamala Harris has had her share of tough moments in debates, like when she was confronted by Representative Tulsi Gabbard in 2019. She’s grown since then, but Trump is a different kind of opponent—unpredictable, unconventional, and unafraid to break the rules. Harris has avoided engaging with Trump’s personal attacks so far, but on a live debate stage, she’ll need to be quick on her feet. Her ability to fend off Trump’s jabs, especially if he tries to tie her to unpopular aspects of President Biden’s record, will be crucial.

Mute Buttons and Micromanagement
One of the more technical, yet intriguing aspects of the debate, is the role of muted microphones. In an effort to maintain order, the debate commission will mute the candidates' mics when it’s not their turn to speak. Harris’s team had hoped to keep the mics live, aiming to provoke Trump into interrupting her, but they didn’t get their way. This could mean a more subdued debate, though, with Trump involved, there’s always potential for the unexpected.

Biden’s Shadow Looms Large
Trump’s game plan is clear: tie Harris as tightly as possible to President Biden. His team hopes viewers will leave the debate associating her with every controversial decision and unpopular policy of the Biden administration. Harris, meanwhile, must walk a tightrope—remaining loyal to her running mate, President Biden, while also gently distancing herself from his more contentious decisions.

Roe v. Wade: The Hot Button Issue
Expect the topic of abortion to take center stage. Harris will likely go on the offensive, reminding voters that it was Trump who shaped the Supreme Court that overturned Roe v. Wade. In her latest ad, she emphasized Trump’s own words of taking pride in that decision, something she aims to highlight as a major vulnerability. Trump, on the other hand, may try to muddy the waters by arguing that states should decide abortion policies.

Economy: Whose Numbers Add Up?
The economy remains a pivotal issue. Trump is likely to hammer home the message that life was more affordable during his presidency, pointing to the higher prices and inflation of the Biden administration. Harris, however, will likely argue that Trump handed over an economy in tatters, still reeling from the pandemic. She may try to shift the blame back to him, while also offering her own solutions for lowering the cost of living.

Race and Gender Dynamics: A Historic Debate
This debate isn’t just about policy; it’s a historic moment as well. Harris is poised to become the first female president and the second person of color to hold the office. But she has largely avoided leaning into this historic aspect of her candidacy, especially when Trump has launched racially charged attacks. Still, the dynamics of a Black and South Asian woman debating a white man will inevitably color the public’s perception of this face-off.

The Battle for the Viral Moment
In today’s media landscape, debates are often remembered not for the full 90 minutes, but for the few seconds that get shared, retweeted, and memed. Both candidates will be looking for that magic moment that can sway undecided voters. Trump’s “Will you shut up, man?” moment from 2020 and Reagan’s witty retort in 1984 are just a couple of examples of how a single line can define a debate. Whether it’s a sharp comeback or a memorable zinger, both Trump and Harris will be aiming for a moment that resonates with voters long after the debate ends.

Reflection
Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This verse speaks to the power of our words and how they shape our relationships and communities. Let’s remember that the most lasting change often comes not through heated debate, but through patient conversation, kindness, and understanding. May we all strive to listen more deeply, speak more thoughtfully, and approach every conversation with the grace that reflects God’s love.p