The first presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump has sparked significant commentary and concern within the Democratic Party, primarily focused on Biden's performance. Here's a summary of the key points and reactions:
### Biden's Performance:
- **Stammering and Fumbling**: Biden reportedly struggled during the debate, stammering and fumbling on several occasions.
- **Defence of Economic Policies**: He faced challenges in effectively defending his administration's economic policies, particularly under scrutiny from Trump regarding job growth.
- **Health Initiatives**: Biden's description of his administration's health initiatives was criticized for being vague and unclear.
### Trump's Performance:
- **Forceful and Aggressive**: In contrast, Donald Trump was characterized as forceful and aggressive throughout the 90-minute debate.
- **Criticism of Biden**: Trump took jabs at Biden's coherence, suggesting Biden himself might not understand his own statements.
### Reactions and Concerns:
- **Democratic Concerns**: Leaders within the Democratic Party expressed deep concern over Biden's performance. Some have called for Biden to consider stepping aside as the party's nominee for the November polls.
- **Age and Fitness Concerns**: Concerns about Biden's age, mental fitness, and verbal slip-ups have resurfaced amid his re-election campaign.
- **Public Statements**:
 - Jay Surdukowski from New Hampshire described Biden as "toast" after the debate, indicating a poor performance.
 - Van Jones, a Democratic strategist, echoed concerns about Biden's debate performance.
 - A former Biden administration official criticized Biden's overall appearance and coherence during the debate.
### Biden Team's Response:
- **Health Explanation**: Biden's team attributed some of his struggles during the debate to a cold.
- **Defending Record**: Vice President Kamala Harris acknowledged Biden's slow start but emphasized his strong finish and highlighted his accomplishments over the past three years.
Overall, Biden's performance in the first debate has intensified discussions about his candidacy and raised questions about his ability to effectively campaign and govern. His team continues to defend his record and performance, despite the criticisms and calls for reevaluation within his own party.
