Kamala Harris tells Donald Trump, 'Putin would eat you for lunch' during the presidential debate

Trump and Harris sparred over immigration and abortion, with Harris accusing Trump of not being tough enough on Putin.

The presidential debate stage in Philadelphia became the arena for a tense confrontation between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as they tackled hot-button issues ahead of the November U.S. election.

The debate, which exceeded its 90-minute schedule, saw both candidates aggressively debate topics such as the economy, abortion rights, and illegal immigration. 

One of the most striking moments came when Kamala Harris boldly claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin "would eat him for lunch," highlighting a perceived weakness in Trump's foreign policy.

Throughout the evening, Harris aimed to undermine Trump’s leadership, criticizing his ability to handle international affairs and his popularity at public events, stating that people left his rallies "out of boredom." 

On the other side, Trump frequently branded Harris as a proponent of "massive illegal immigration" and labeled her a "dangerous Marxist" and the worst vice president in history.

The debate kicked off with Harris extending an awkward handshake to Trump, setting the stage for a night of direct engagement. 

Harris was particularly focused on domestic issues, promising to cut the cost of living and restore abortion rights, while Trump accused her and the Biden administration of high inflation and worsening the immigration crisis. 

He claimed, "In Springfield, they're eating the dogs. The people that came in. They're eating the cats. They're eating the pets of the people that live there," a statement that was quickly refuted by the moderators citing no credible reports of such incidents.

Abortion rights were another focal point, with Harris hitting hard against Trump's policies. She remarked, "Now in over 20 states there are Trump abortion bans which make it criminal for a doctor or nurse to provide health care," emphasizing the severity of the bans which "make no exception even for rape and incest."

The debate also veered into personal attacks and claims about each other's capabilities. Harris challenged Trump’s negotiation skills and his interactions with global dictators, stating, "It is absolutely well known that these dictators and autocrats are rooting for you to be president again, because they're so clear they can manipulate you with flattery and favours."

Despite the intense exchanges, the debate also saw moments where both candidates defended their records and outlined their visions for America’s future. 

The night concluded without a clear plan for a second debate, leaving the electorate to digest the night’s heated discussions.

Celebrity reactions also poured in, with Taylor Swift openly supporting Harris on Instagram: "I'm voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them," praising Harris as a "steady-handed, gifted leader." 

The endorsement was celebrated by the Harris campaign with promotional "Harris-Walz friendship bracelets" linked to Swift’s endorsement, showcasing the intersection of politics and pop culture.