A majority of undecided voters expressed being unimpressed by the performances of both candidates in Tuesday's presidential debate, with many citing a lack of clear policy details and a desire for more specifics on immigration and foreign policy.
The recent presidential debate between former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris left many undecided voters unmoved, as a majority of those interviewed by The New York Times expressed no change in their views after the event.
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Shavanaka Kelly found Trump's claims about migrants stealing and eating pets in Ohio amusing, questioning his credibility. However, she also remained unimpressed by Harris, saying that she "didn't, kind of, separate herself."
Undecided Voters Unswayed by Presidential Debate Performances
A couple in Pennsylvania, Sharon and Bob Reed, were disappointed by both candidates, finding Trump's tariffs and Harris's aid proposals too vague to provide clarity on how they would address inflation concerns for seniors on a fixed income.
Among undecided voters, many acknowledged that Harris appeared more presidential than Trump. However, a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Samira Ali, remained unconvinced and expressed a need for Harris to "impress" her further.
Undecided Voters Unswayed by Presidential Debate Performances
Gerald Mayes, a 40-year-old from Las Vegas, felt confused after the debate, stating, "Nothing is clear to me, and I am really trying to follow it."
Jason Henderson from Arizona found Trump's presentation more commanding but saw nothing from Harris that convinced him of her superiority.
Undecided Voters Unswayed by Presidential Debate Performances
In a surprising turn, two voters were persuaded by the candidates' performances. Kristen Morris of North Carolina, who had been intrigued by Harris's entry into the race, planned to vote for the vice president after the debate.
Conversely, Keilah Miller of Milwaukee felt nudged towards Trump, finding his pitch more convincing and recalling a time when she was living better during his presidency.
Undecided Voters Unswayed by Presidential Debate Performances
Notably, ABC News moderators fact-checked Trump four times during the debate but did not correct Harris even once.
The Times' interviews with undecided voters suggest that the debate failed to sway opinions or provide sufficient clarity on policy details. With the election approaching, it remains to be seen how these voters will ultimately decide and what factors will influence their choices.
