Immediately focusing on Trump’s ego, Kamala Harris’s debate strategy exposed it as a weakness in their first debate. Harris used a more personal approach, teasing the former president’s perception of himself, something he seldom had to face in the regulated spaces of his rallies, instead of challenging his ideas or record.
Harris immediately attacked Trump’s self-perception, calling him a disgrace, questioning the loyalty of his fans, and disparaging his reputation among world leaders. She even suggested that a significant amount of Trump’s fortune originates from his father’s money, casting doubt on his long-standing claim to be a self-made businessman. These comments irritated Trump, who was annoyed throughout the conversation.
Trump’s growing irritation sharply contrasted with Harris’s continued composure and coolness. Harris replied to Trump’s insults by making gestures such as arched brows, a contemptuous smirk, and leaning in to hear the absurd accusations better. Trump also called Harris a Marxist and linked her family to Marxist views. She turned the tables on Trump by utilizing his strategies of mocking and contempt against him.
As the discussion progressed, Harris turned her attention to more important topics, including abortion rights. She charged that Trump intended to outlaw abortion on a national scale and to impose limitations with no regard for victims of rape or incest. Her voice was steady and controlled, contrasting with Trump’s defensive posture. At one point, Trump further disintegrated in front of the audience by defending absurd and easily refuted assertions. He even lauded authoritarian leaders like Viktor Orban of Hungary, which increased supporters fears about his foreign policy positions.
Kamala Harris’s debate strategy aimed to draw attention to Trump’s flaws. By the night’s end, she had lured Trump into talking about his past transgressions, such as the violent siege of the US Capitol and his refusal to acknowledge the outcome of the 2020 election. Despite Trump’s defense of his popularity and large rally crowds, Harris effectively steered the argument away from her record and into a critique of Trump. A radical shift occurred in the 2024 campaign when Harris demonstrated that she could outsmart and outmaneuver Trump without losing composure in the discussion.
