Philadelphia, Sep 12 (V7N)- Former U.S. President Donald Trump's performance in a recent debate with Vice President Kamala Harris has left Republican Party members, donors, and advisers dismayed, according to reports from the British news agency Reuters. Many within the party felt that Trump missed a significant opportunity in his first direct debate with Harris, failing to effectively counter her attacks.

Senator Lindsey Graham voiced his disappointment, calling Trump's debate performance "weak" and saying, "An opportunity was missed." He noted that Trump failed to stay focused, leaving Harris to dominate the debate. "He lost the opportunity to compete on stage," Graham remarked.

Kamala Harris, 59, successfully cornered Trump, 78, throughout the debate with her carefully prepared responses, persistently questioning his legal troubles and eligibility to return to the Oval Office. Trump's former ally, Chris Christie, also criticized his preparation, stating, "Harris' preparation was excellent. But Trump's shortcomings were on full display." Christie, who had helped Trump in earlier debates, suggested that whoever prepared him this time "failed miserably."

While Trump described the debate as one of his best, saying on Fox & Friends, "I think it was one of the best debates I've had, probably the best ever," several Republican donors expressed doubts about whether he should participate in another round of debates. Some felt that it would depend on whether his aides could improve his preparation, while others believed a second debate might be necessary to reinvigorate the Republican camp.

The debate, hosted by ABC News in Philadelphia, attracted an estimated 671 million television viewers. However, it remains uncertain how many people watched the debate online. Many within the Republican Party are now questioning Trump's debate strategy as they look ahead to future contests.

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