What are your views on responses given by Presidential candidates on the first debate 2025?

The responses given by the presidential candidates in the 2024 debates have been met with significant criticism and mixed reactions. Here are some key points:

Lack of Professionalism and Substance

The first debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, held on June 27, 2024, was criticized for lacking professionalism. Both candidates were accused of making unsupported claims and failing to provide meaningful answers to the questions posed. The debate was described as "underwhelming, repetitive and useless" with both candidates engaging in exaggerated speech and personal attacks rather than discussing tangible solutions to issues2.

Ignoring Key Questions

During the debate, Trump was noted for ignoring questions and providing irrelevant responses. For example, when asked about climate change, Trump diverted the topic to other issues and did not provide a direct answer2.

Criticism of Debate Format and Moderation

While the rules and moderators of the first debate were considered fair and reasonable, the overall format was criticized. The absence of a live audience and the muting of microphones to prevent interjections were seen as attempts to improve the debate's quality, but the debate still suffered from a lack of serious and meaningful discourse2.

Shift in Candidates and New Dynamics

Following President Biden's withdrawal from the race, Vice President Kamala Harris took his place, and the dynamics of the debates changed. The debate between Harris and Trump on September 10, 2024, was also scrutinized. Harris criticized Trump's alleged plans under "Project 2025," which Trump denied any involvement with. This exchange highlighted the ongoing issue of candidates making claims without providing clear evidence or policy details35.

Public Reception

Public opinion on the debates has been divided. A significant portion of viewers approved of how the debates were run, but there was also considerable disapproval. Many viewers felt that the moderators were fair, but a substantial number believed there was bias, with more Republicans thinking the moderators favored Harris4.

Call for Additional Debates

Despite the criticisms, a majority of Americans, including both Democrats and Republicans, expressed interest in watching additional presidential debates. This suggests a desire for more opportunities for the candidates to engage in meaningful discussions and provide clearer policy positions4.

Overall, the responses from the presidential candidates in the 2024 debates have been marked by a lack of substance, personal attacks, and a general dissatisfaction with the format and conduct of the debates.