The Impact of 2020 Presidential Debate on Voting Behavior

The 2020 presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris was not only a critical moment in the campaign but also provided valuable insights into the minds of undecided voters and those already set in their positions.

While many anticipate that the debate will sway undecided voters, for many, it was more of an affirmation of their existing opinions. Donald Trump's passionate and frustrated stance came across as a fervent love for his nation, its values, and the way it used to be. This passion is a characteristic that resonates deeply with his supporters, and the debate highlighted this aspect further.

Kamala Harris's reaction to Trump's statements intrigued many. Her facial expressions and the contemplative look on her face suggested that despite their political differences, she shared many of the same aspirations and goals as Trump. This subtle humanization of Harris made her more relatable to some voters, particularly those who found themselves in agreement with Trump on certain issues.

Reactions of Different Voter Groups

Those who lean towards a blue vote: Already supportive of Joe Biden, the debate did little to change their minds. The message was clear: Biden is their clear-cut winner, and Harris's performance only solidified this belief. She delivered a masterful debate, ensuring that her position was well-received by the audience.

Red voters: For those who support Trump, the debate did not alter their stance. Donald Trump's ill-prepared response and umbrage at the issue of America's past only reaffirmed their belief that he is the right candidate. His passionate rhetoric, while not aligning with Democratic policies, continues to draw support from those who appreciate his love for the country.

Undecided voters: The debate provided no clear signal to this group. People who were still confused about their choice should carefully scrutinize their logic and the issues that matter to them. The debate highlighted the need for clear policy positions and transparent communication, which both candidates failed to provide in equal measure.

Discussion on Debate's Effectiveness

Some argue that the debate serves more as a formality rather than an informational platform. Paul Ryan, a former Republican House Speaker, stated that the debates are not informative and merely a performance. He believes that if one must rely on the debate to make a decision, one is not fit to vote.

The debate was criticized for its lack of substance. Both candidates lied multiple times, and the lack of material on their potential policies and plans for the nation was a glaring issue. Despite these shortcomings, it was a show of clear passions and preconceived views, with neither side providing much to change the minds of the already set.

Conclusion

The 2020 presidential debate did little to change minds, but it did offer a window into the strategies and the emotional states of the candidates. While some found Trump's passion inspiring and resonant, others saw it as a weak point. Harris's performance was impressive, but it didn't provide substantive policy details. The debate highlighted the continuing issue of misinformation and lack of transparency in political discourse, suggesting that perhaps the debate format needs a critical overhaul.

Ultimately, the debate served as a proxy for the underlying political divides in America. It emphasized the need for more informed and transparent communication from the political leaders and a more critical evaluation of their performance by the public.