History was made earlier this evening at Hosftra University where the first presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump wrapped up just minutes ago. The audience size is destined to be record-breaking and both candidates had the potential to win big or lose ground depending on the outcome. The debate was moderated by Lester Holt of the NBC Nightly News and the full video is below for your viewing pleasure.
First Presidential Debate from Hofstra University
Air Date: Monday, September 26, 2016
Candidates: Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump
Moderator: Lester Holt of NBC News
Transcript: Washington Post
Here is the complete debate video:
Report on the event from CNN:
The highly anticipated debut debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump lived up to its billing Monday as the candidates clashed repeatedly over the economy, tax cuts for the wealthy and ISIS.
As Trump slammed Clinton for staying off the campaign trail recently as he traveled the country, Clinton responded with her best zinger of the night.
“I think Donald just criticized me for preparing for this debate,” she said. “And yes, I did. And you know what else I prepared for? I prepared to be President. And that is a good thing.”
The line drew a round of applause from an audience that had been instructed to remain quiet.Trump’s tendency to make false claims was on full display during the debate as he made inaccurate statements on everything from laws regarding policing, his support for the Iraq War and his contention that Clinton was behind the so-called birther conspiracy.
Clinton, the Democratic nominee, repeatedly sought to correct Trump’s statements — going so far as referring viewers to fact checks on her website — as she aimed to portray him as out of touch with the complexities of the American economy.
“I know you live in your own reality,” she told Trump.
I don’t know if I agree with CNN’s analysis that it “lived up to its billing,” I think the exchanges between Trump and Hillary left a lot to be desired. Both of them were lost at times in the weeds of their own answers, though I got the impression that some of it was meant to simply run out the clock and deny more time to the opponent. Donald Trump had a strong first half of the debate, though Hillary did show her “stamina” and maintained a pretty evenhanded expression and demeanor throughout the full 90 minutes. If I had to guess, I’d say this particular debate might have little to no impact on the polls. Both candidates landed some strong points, though both of them have their own flaws and weaknesses as well. One thing I’m certain of is that Donald Trump might do well to spend a little more time preparing his delivery for the next round on October 9th.
