Donald Trump and Joe Biden Clash in First 2024 Presidential Debate

Former US President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden faced off in their first debate for the 2024 election cycle, hosted by CNN in Atlanta.

Trump’s Criticisms

Trump criticized Biden, claiming that the US is no longer respected globally and is like a ‘third-world nation.’ He called the US withdrawal from Afghanistan the ‘most embarrassing day’ in the country’s history and argued that his own plan would have allowed the US to exit with ‘dignity.’

Biden’s Defense

Biden defended his record, highlighting job growth during his tenure and framing the election as a choice between the continuation of democracy and its potential destruction under Trump. He noted that more jobs have been created under his administration following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Election Context

Biden launched his re-election campaign in April 2023, while Trump announced his bid to reclaim the White House in November 2022. If Trump wins, he would become the second president to serve two non-consecutive terms.