In Atlanta, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump squared off in the first of three presidential debates ahead of the 2024 US presidential election in November.
It was hosted at the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia.
Key topics included discussions on the economy, healthcare, immigration, and foreign policy, particularly the situation in Gaza, the war in Ukraine, and even the possibility of another global conflagration – “World War III“.
Both candidates tried to sway undecided voters to their side while consolidating on their core base ideological principles.
Biden emphasized his administration’s achievements, and Trump critiqued Biden’s policies while highlighting his during his previous tenure.
Two Ideologies Spar
President Joe Biden seemed sometimes to flounder while articulating points about immigration, abortion, and other vital issues. Trump, on the other hand, tried to whip up concerns that immigration would lead to higher crime rates and accused Democrats of “ripping” babies from the womb – a reference to Democrat’s support for Abortion Rights.
Trump also deflected when asked if he would honor the 2024 election results, saying he would only do so if the results were “free” and “fair,” just as he did back in 2020. He then reiterated his claims that he lost the 2020 race to Biden due to “fraud.”
Protesters also gathered outside the debate venue in Atlanta, Georgia, to call attention to the US’s role in Israel’s war in Gaza and call on both candidates to push for a ceasefire.
Possibility Of ‘World War III’
Trump accused Biden of driving the world to the brink of a new world war.
“Russia would have never attacked if I had been president,” Trump said at one point. At another, he said, “He will drive us into World War III, and we are closer to World War III than anyone can imagine,” Trump said of Biden.
Biden retorted, “You want a World War III, let him win.”
“Just let Putin go ahead and take Kyiv,” he continued, citing Article 5 of the NATO convention, which compels member states to defend one another if attacked. “Then you have a war.”
Democrats Worried About Biden
However, some Democrats, disappointed with their candidate’s performance, who often seemed to conflate issues and get lost in his line, urged Biden to withdraw from the race and allow the party to choose an alternative candidate.
Democrats are worried that Biden’s debate performance, which aligned with criticisms from Trump portraying him as unfit for office, may render him unelectable in the November elections.
“This was like a champion boxer past his prime needing his corner to throw in the towel,” said a Democratic lawmaker, suggesting Biden should exit the race.
Finding a replacement would be easier if Biden stepped down voluntarily. However, it would require a significant uprising among Democratic National Convention delegates, most of whom were elected to support Biden’s nomination. Some Democrats are contemplating this scenario.
A New Democratic Nominee?
“It’s time to talk about an open convention and a new Democratic nominee,” said a second Democratic lawmaker who has been a staunch Biden supporter.
But replacing Biden at this stage is a tough call, and it could further unravel the party’s chances.
“There is a sense of shock at how he came out at the beginning of this debate, how his voice sounded. He seemed a little disoriented. There will be discussions about whether he should continue,” said David Axelrod, a top adviser to former President Barack Obama, on CNN. “Only he can decide if he’s going to continue.”
Axelrod predicted Biden would likely not withdraw, citing his strong pride and self-confidence. The last time an eligible president opted out of reelection was in 1968 when Lyndon Johnson decided not to pursue a second term, a scenario some see as relevant today.
While expressing personal admiration for Biden’s accomplishments, including his handling of international conflicts, key appointments, and domestic policies, Mr Axelrod believes it’s essential for Biden to step aside for another candidate.
The full debate can be watch at JolibaLive News! homepage. Scroll down to JolibaLive Radio/TV tab.
Please comment and share this article, & Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
