It was clear early in the debate, Hillary Clinton was well prepared, Donald Trump not so much. However, the debate was not the Clinton rout many pundits had predicted.
Trump spent most of the debate on the defensive, interrupting and talking over Clinton while moderator Lester Holt did his best to keep the candidates on track.
Some of the highlights
Trump saying “law and order” numerous times while stating how he would use “stop and search” to bring crime under control. Holt pointing out “stop and search” tactics have been ruled unconstitutional, Trump responded “No you’re wrong” (Holt was correct). Clinton pointed out that crime rates are down across the country.
Clinton called Trump out for his refusal to release his tax returns, a norm for all presidential candidates. She specifically suggested Trump has something to hide saying he may have paid no taxes. Trumps response “that makes me smart.” Trump did say he would release his tax returns if Clinton released 30,000 emails from her private server. Holt responded, “So it’s negotiable.” Trump made clear the release of his tax returns is not negotiable.
Trump brought up Clintons email scandal. Her reply “that was a mistake and I take full responsibility.”
Clinton brought up the many contractors and workers Trump’s companies have not paid or short paid for their work and products. Trump responded “it’s all words, I’ve built a great company…..I’ve taken advantage of the laws.”
Both seemed to agree on tougher gun control, Clinton specifically stating those on the “no fly list” should not be allowed to own guns.
No major gaffs
Trump knows he needs to win over women voters to take the White House. He came close to a Megyn Kelly moment when he accused Clinton of not having “the look” to be president. He quickly corrected himself by changing “the look” to “stamina.”
Clinton did not make any obvious errors. She was able to put Trump on his heels early but, while it was obvious from his facial expressions he was angry he did not lose his cool as many expected.
Over all this debate belongs in Clinton’s win column but not by a wide margin. The next debate will be October 9, 2016.
The full text of the debate with fact checking can be seen at NPR.
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