‘Kambush!’ ‘Harris puts Trump on the defense’: World’s papers

Newspapers across the world were dominated on Wednesday morning by the confrontational debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump in the run up to the presidential election in November.

The Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal focused on the clashes between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris over key issues such as abortion, the economy, and immigration. The debate started on a civil note with a handshake but quickly turned combative. Harris criticized Trump’s tax policies and his handling of immigration, while Trump accused the vice president of failing to address the nation’s pressing issues, the paper reported.

The Washington Post

The Washington Post drew attention to Harris’ sharp critiques, pressing Trump on immigration, democracy, and his past controversies. Trump countered with fiery rhetoric, aiming to reframe Harris as a radical leftist disguised as a moderate. Harris emphasized her readiness to lead and drew contrasts between herself and Trump, particularly regarding leadership in democracy and governance, the paper reported.

New York Post

The New York Post accused ABC hosts of a ‘Kambush’, suggesting that Harris and debate moderators ganged up on Trump. The paper claimed that ABC News moderators David Muir and Linsey Davis never fact-checked Harris but repeatedly interrupted Trump, and asked him tougher questions.

The Boston Globe

The Boston Globe described how Harris took an aggressive stance, confronting Trump over various issues. The debate was marked by personal attacks: Trump accused Democrats of supporting infant executions and immigrants eating pets, and accused Harris of contributing to his assassination attempt.

Brazil—O Estado de S. Paulo

The Brazilian paper suggested Harris was on the offensive during the debate, managing to destabilize Trump with an aggressive stance. There were moments of personal attacks: Trump accused his rival of being a Marxist and once again questioned her racial identity as Black. Kamala attacked by mentioning the legal charges against Trump.

Canada—Toronto Star

The Canadian paper Toronto Star highlighted the “tense and combative” debate. The two sparred on politics and personality, showcasing starkly different visions for the country. The paper said that Harris tried repeatedly to get under Trump’s skin, reminding him about his 2020 election loss, which he still denies.

Argentina—Clarín

The Argentine paper Clarín highlighted key debate topics such as abortion, the economy, racism and the war in Ukraine. Harris remained composed despite being accused by her rival of bringing in illegal immigrants who “eat dogs and cats.” Clarín suggested that no clear winner emerged from the debate.