© 2024 Allbritton Journalism Institute
Donald Trump
Alex Brandon/AP

Kamala Harris Got Under Donald Trump’s Skin and Let Him Stew

The vice president repeatedly found ways to frustrate the former president on everything from abortion policy to rally size. Trump’s campaign was left to blame the debate moderators.

Alex Brandon/AP

Democrats have waited for months for Donald Trump’s record and temperament to become the focal point of the 2024 election.

Kamala Harris finally made it happen — at least for one night.

The Democratic presidential nominee aggressively and comprehensively criticized the former president during Tuesday’s debate, articulating a sustained attack against Trump that put him on the defensive over issues like abortion rights, the attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6 and even the size of his crowds at rallies. At times, Harris even appeared to visibly anger Trump, who struggled to press his advantage on subjects, like immigration, that should have been favorable for him.