In a clash of opposing political ideologies, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump faced off.

With 55 days to go before Election Day, when Americans go to the polls to elect the next president, the debate was a high-stakes battleground for both candidates to present their case to the nation.

There are currently no plans for a second debate, but Harris is reportedly eager to face Trump again before November 5.

According to a snap poll conducted by CNN following Tuesday’s debate, Harris won the election: 63 percent of respondents declared her the winner; only 37 percent of viewers believed Trump had won the first round.

Newsweek the generative AI tool ChatGPT asked: “Who won the presidential debate, Trump or Harris?”

“Give reasons for your answer. When answering, consider who is moderating the debate and what new microphone rules apply.”

Who won the presidential debate according to ChatGPT?

ChatGPT responded: “At the recent presidential debate on September 10, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris was widely seen as the winner over former President Donald Trump. A CNN poll conducted immediately after the debate found that 63 percent of viewers believed Harris outperformed Trump, while only 37 percent thought Trump performed better.

“Several political analysts echoed this sentiment, noting that Harris effectively presented herself as a candidate of change and took on Trump on several key issues, including abortion and economic policy. ​

“Harris’ performance appears to have had a positive impact on viewers’ perceptions, as her popularity rose from 39 percent to 45 percent after the debate. In contrast, Trump’s ratings remained relatively unchanged.

“Polls and betting markets also reflected a shift in sentiment in Harris’s favour, suggesting her performance may have reassured her supporters and attracted undecided voters.

“Harris was widely perceived as more focused and better prepared, particularly on health care reform, climate change and economic inequality. She effectively challenged Trump on his record and highlighted the discrepancies between his promises and actions. Harris’ calm and collected demeanor contrasted with Trump’s more combative style, which was likely to appeal to undecided voters and those seeking stability.

“Trump, known for his aggressive debating style, stayed true to his strengths, criticizing the policies of the Biden-Harris administration, particularly on immigration and foreign policy. But his performance was marked by interruptions and attempts to dominate the conversation, which may have alienated some viewers. He had moments that resonated with his base, particularly during discussions of law and order and economic growth.

“The debate was moderated by a moderator who kept a tight grip on proceedings and ensured that both candidates followed the rules. The moderator’s balanced approach prevented Trump from dominating the debate as he had in previous debates and allowed Harris to make her arguments without constant interruptions. This likely benefited Harris, as she was able to articulate her policy views more clearly.

“The introduction of the new microphone policy, which muted each candidate’s microphone during the other’s opening statement, had a significant impact on the dynamics of the debate. This policy curbed Trump’s tendency to interrupt and forced him to play by the rules, thus creating a level playing field. Harris, who tends to be more moderate in her speeches, benefited from this structure, which allowed her to weigh in without being overshadowed.

“Given these factors, Kamala Harris is widely viewed as the winner of this debate. The combination of her strong performance, moderator control, and microphone politics allowed her to make her arguments effectively while minimizing Trump’s usual advantages in a free-for-all debate format. However, the “winner” of a debate can be subjective, and the perception of the debate by each candidate’s base and undecided voters may vary.”

John Koch, lecturer and discussion leader at Vanderbilt University, said Newsweek Harris did a better job.

“This debate was about defining Kamala Harris. Trump wanted to link her to Biden’s record and portray her as too liberal. Harris wanted to show that she is capable of being president and a candidate in her own right with her own policy proposals. By and large, Harris managed to define herself better than he did her. He was able to make some points, but they got lost among other things that will get more attention.

“With rare exceptions, debates play a marginal role at best. I don’t think this is a rare exception.”

The final presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Trump ended in a historic defeat that forced the incumbent Democratic president to withdraw after behind-the-scenes machinations sidelined him.

A spokesman for betting company SportsHandle said: Newsweek Trump’s chances have declined after the discussion.

“Over the last month, Trump began to slowly pull away, and the lead has widened to nearly 7 percentage points.

“After his performance in yesterday’s debate, Trump is now down about 4 points, according to our odds tracker.

“The poll following the debate showed that Harris did better than many expected – and the ratings reflect that.

“Harris’ chances started to decline and have been steadily declining since mid-August.”

This debate was the boost Harris’ campaign team needed and significantly reduced the gap between the two candidates on a possible election victory.”

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