PRINCETON, NJ – This evening, faculty from the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) provided their reactions to the second presidential debate of the 2024 campaign, and the first between former President Donald J. Trump and Vice President Kamala D. Harris. The real-time insights from Princeton SPIA’s distinguished scholars and researchers analyze key moments, evaluate policy discussions, and assess the broader implications for the 2024 election. As part of Princeton SPIA’s ongoing 2024 election analysis, this effort reflects the School’s commitment to contributing to informed public discourse and expert analysis during the election cycle.  

Frances Lee, Professor of Politics and Public Affairs; Co-Director, Center for the Study of Democratic Politics 

“The debate clarified the choice more than it is likely to influence the outcome of this election. With unhappy voters wanting a change, both not-quite non-incumbents promised a new direction.  VP Harris spoke to undecided voters by offering to turn the page on the chaos and division. She mounted little defense of the Biden record or of her own controversial past positions. Former President Trump played the hits, including a reprise of the “big lie” about the 2020 elections. He appealed to voters who feel nostalgia for a better economy and think Democrats and migrants are destroying the country. Supporters of both candidates are likely pleased with what they saw.” 

Tali Mendelberg, John Work Garrett Professor of Politics; Co-Director, Center for the Study of Democratic Politics: 

“Harris demonstrated Trump’s weakness of character and reminded the audience why Trump would be problematic for democracy and the rule of law. The moderators did well to press both candidates on the issues and their records while challenging Trump’s gross exaggerations and lies. Trump rambled and lobbed vague insults. He failed to effectively attack Harris on her vulnerability: public concern about the economy and her liberal past positions. This election will be close and will come down to voter turnout.”   

Lauren Wright, Associate Research Scholar and Lecturer in Politics and Public Affairs: 

“One of the most memorable moments of tonight’s debate was when Trump doubled down on the lie that he won the 2020 election, placing him at odds with moderate members of his own party and swing voters who might otherwise consider him a viable option. Harris was well-prepared for this moment, citing numerous high-profile Republicans and former Trump administration officials who now oppose him because of his actions on and after January 6. Harris’s responses to questions about her own controversial record and policy plans were much less detailed and clear—a missed opportunity to address weak spots in her own candidacy.”