In what was billed as the must-watch showdown before the upcoming U.S. presidential election, President Joe Biden delivered a masterclass in hesitancy, while former President Donald Trump treated viewers to a relentless stream of 'alternative facts.' Amid their verbal jabs, America witnessed a display of senior statesmanship as the oldest candidates in U.S. history traded barbs over decisive topics such as abortion, immigration, and the economy.
Biden's allies attributed his faltering delivery to a cold, though doubts about his age (81) persisted. Meanwhile, Trump, no stranger to legal controversies, poured out his trademark fabrications, eager to prove his physical fitness despite ongoing challenges. The debate played out without a live audience, interrupted only by automated microphone cuts to prevent disruptions. With polls showing a dead heat and widespread voter dissatisfaction, Democrats are now scrambling to find alternatives who could replace Biden, with growing concerns about his fitness and age.
Jon Stewart, on 'The Daily Show,' remarked: 'Let me just say after watching tonight’s debate: both of these men should be using performance-enhancing drugs. If it helps them speak more clearly, solve problems, and, in one case, address truthfulness, morality, and narcissism, then let's go for it.'
Netizens added to the surreal atmosphere with humorous reactions on X (previously Twitter).