Trump vows tariffs, Harris blames Xi for hiding COVID in tense debate

Republicans cry foul at 'biased' moderators, while Democrats declare victory

20240911 Trump Harris  debate

The Republican and Democratic party presidential nominees, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, debate in Philadelphia on Sept. 10 (Source photos by Reuters and AP)

KEN MORIYASU, Nikkei Asia diplomatic correspondent

PHILADELPHIA -- U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump faced off for the first time Tuesday night in what could be their only debate of the 2024 election.

The debate began with a handshake. "Kamala Harris," the vice president said while extending her hand, in light of this being the first time they had met in person. Trump shook her hand with a smile. But the cordial atmosphere lasted only a few minutes, as the event kicked off with an exchange on the economy.

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