Republican presidential nominee, former US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee, US Vice President Kamala Harris shake hands as they arrive at their podium to participate in a presidential debate hosted by ABC in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US, September 10, 2024. | Photo credit: Reuters
Before Donald Trump and Kamala Harris come face to face Televised debates On Tuesday night (September 10, 2024), for the first and possibly the last time, the two US presidential candidates shook hands, much to the delight of American voters.
This was the first such meeting between the country’s former president and current vice-president, whose bitter rivalry has often led to sharp attacks on each other, the impact of which was visible late in the night.
The Democratic vice president began the face-to-face talks by coming on stage and walking up to Mr Trump’s lectern and shaking his hand.
“Kamala Harris,” he said, introducing himself when the two first met. “Let’s have a good debate.”
The former Republican president responded, “Nice to meet you. Have fun.”
It is noteworthy that Donald Trump did not shake hands with President Joe Biden. First debate in JuneAnd it was also the first handshake between the presidential candidates of the two parties since the 2016 election, when Mr Trump faced Hillary Clinton.
Democrats on X called it a “power move” by Ms Harris ahead of her first debate since she replaced Joe Biden as the party’s top nominee.
The contest gave Americans the most detailed look yet at a campaign that has changed dramatically since the final debate in June.
Published – September 11, 2024 10:46 am IST