The Mics Went Silent, but Misogyny Roared On

Tuesday night marked the first-ever debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, setting the stage for a tense confrontation. Within moments, it was clear that the dynamic would be contentious. Harris approached Trump, extended her hand, and clearly pronounced her name as “COMMA-LA,” setting a tone of confidence and assertiveness.

The debate spotlighted gender dynamics, with Trump’s performance echoing his trademark masculinity. He frequently displayed divisiveness and distraction, reminiscent of his presidency. Throughout the 90-minute exchange, he largely disregarded the presence of Harris and moderator Linsey Davis, instead choosing to engage predominantly with David Muir, the other moderator.

Harris maintained a respectful tone, referring to Trump as “the former president.” In stark contrast, Trump avoided acknowledging her by name or title, frequently referring to President Biden simply as “her boss.” This tactic aimed to undermine Harris’ authority.

Microphones were muted when opponents spoke, a rule from Biden’s previous candidacy, which Harris had unsuccessfully challenged. Her facial expressions often conveyed her disbelief and amusement as Trump made several dubious claims, including those about immigration and the 2020 election results.

Attempts to dominate the debate persisted, with Trump sarcastically telling Harris, “I’m talking now, if you don’t mind.” He later interrupted her with a brusque, “Quiet, please,” during a discussion about the Russia conflict. Despite the lack of a live audience, Harris spoke directly to voters, focusing on making herself known in her budding campaign.

Harris seemed intent on reminding viewers of Trump’s temperament while maintaining her composure. When discussing immigration, she shifted the conversation to Trump’s campaign rallies, noting, “people start leaving his rallies early out of exhaustion and boredom.” This remark challenged his narrative and illustrated her approach to engaging voters.

Trump responded defensively, immediately pivoting to discuss his rallies rather than addressing Harris’ criticisms of his immigration policies. His comments included a bizarre, false claim about Haitian immigrants that drew attention for its inaccuracy. This exchange exemplified the contrasting styles of the two candidates.

Trump had previously labeled Harris with a slew of derogatory terms, including “crazy” and “low IQ.” Upon addressing her race, Harris confronted his attempt to stereotype her and categorically dismissed it as stale and rooted in racism. In a debate that was filled with tense exchanges, it became evident that Trump’s attempts at superiority fell flat.

Despite pre-debate claims by Trump that he wouldn’t allow “boxes or artificial lifts” for Harris, it was ultimately his performance that seemed diminished. By the debate’s conclusion, she had effectively countered his stereotypes and showed resilience in the face of his antics.

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