Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris faced off in their first presidential debate on Tuesday night. With Election Day fast approaching, this high-stakes confrontation in Philadelphia was marked by fiery exchanges over immigration, abortion, and economic recovery. Trump took aim at Harris’s policies and her record, while Harris pushed back, blaming Trump for polarizing the nation. Snap polls suggest Harris may have gained the edge, but the tight race in key battleground states leaves the ultimate winner uncertain. So, who really came out ahead?

Democratic candidate Kamala Harris seized the spotlight in a fiery presidential debate against Republican rival Donald Trump on Tuesday, delivering a barrage of attacks that put Trump on the defensive. The 90-minute event, hosted by ABC News, saw both policy debates and personal clashes dominate the stage.

Harris, a former prosecutor known for her sharp rhetoric, took control early on, prompting a visibly agitated Trump, 78, to respond with a series of contentious claims. Notably, Harris jabbed at Trump's campaign rallies, suggesting people leave early "out of exhaustion and boredom," contrasting it with her own vibrant crowds.

In response, Trump criticized Harris's record on immigration and accused her of shifting policy stances. He also blamed her for what he termed "Trump abortion bans" and the events of January 6 at the US Capitol.

Initial snap polls immediately following the debate suggested a win for Harris, though Trump insisted afterwards that she "lost very badly."

With the November 5 election looming, national opinion polls show Harris maintaining a slight lead, although battleground states remain fiercely contested.

Harris, 59, known for her forceful debate style, strategically engaged Trump on multiple fronts, including healthcare, immigration, and foreign policy. Despite lacking specific policy details, her assertive approach aimed to keep the focus squarely on Trump, a tactic that left her supporters jubilant and some Republicans acknowledging Trump's challenges.

In an unexpected turn, pop superstar Taylor Swift publicly endorsed Harris on Instagram shortly after the debate, bolstering Harris's campaign momentum. Swift's endorsement highlighted Harris's appeal among younger voters and influencers critical to the election's outcome.

Online prediction markets reflected Harris's debate performance positively, with her odds improving as the night progressed. Meanwhile, Trump's rhetoric, including unfounded claims about immigration and electoral fraud, drew criticism but also resonated with his base.

Looking ahead, both campaigns expressed openness to a potential second debate, underscoring the stakes as early voting approaches in key states.

The debate's outcome remains pivotal in shaping voter perceptions as the candidates enter the final stretch of the campaign, with Harris seeking to build on her momentum and Trump aiming for a rebound.