The first decisive match is tense.

(Baonghean) - According to the plan, at 8:00 AM today, September 27th, Vietnam time (which is 9:00 PM on September 26th, US time), the first live debate between the two US presidential candidates, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and billionaire Donald Trump, will take place in New York, USA.

The debate marked the first time the two leading candidates faced each other directly and was also a particularly important "round" for both rivals to gain more voter support, given the extremely close approval ratings.

The live debate taking place today (September 27th, Vietnam time) between the two presidential candidates, former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and billionaire Donald Trump, is attracting special attention from the American public and voters. Photo: CNN.

Debate - a defining characteristic of American elections.

Live televised debates have been a unique feature of US presidential elections since 1960. They are considered the most public and transparent platform for presidential candidates to showcase their strengths and campaign promises. However, conversely, they can also be a double-edged sword for candidates who don't skillfully conceal their weaknesses.

While both billionaire Donald Trump and former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivered separate speeches throughout their campaigns, this marks the first time they have directly confronted each other. Criticisms and attacks will no longer have to travel through the media to reach their opponent; instead, they will be face-to-face, with virtually no distance between them.

That's why it's said that this debate is the most accurate measure that can completely change the landscape of the race for the White House if a candidate has a weak performance. For that reason, the debate always becomes the focus of public attention, not only in the US but also for interested people worldwide.

The prime time slot of 9:00 PM (US time) on most major US television channels such as CNN, ABC, NBC, Fox, CBS, etc., will be dedicated to broadcasting the debate between the two candidates taking place at Hofstra University in New York City. Reuters predicts that the number of viewers watching this live televised debate will surpass the record of 80 million people in US presidential elections to date.

According to a recent poll, nearly 80% of American voters said they would watch this debate. This is because the first "clash" between the two candidates will focus on topics of particular interest to voters: the future direction of America; how to achieve prosperity; and ensuring national security.

Recent opinion polls show a close race between the two leading candidates. Photo: NBC News.

An equally matched opponent

According to observers, the two leading candidates currently have their own strengths and weaknesses and remain evenly matched in terms of support. According to recent polls by the Washington Post and ABC News, the support for Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump differs by only 2%, with figures of 46% and 44% respectively.

Regarding their personal characteristics, the public is undoubtedly very interested and curious to see the contest between these two figures, considered unprecedented in the history of American elections. On one side is a outspoken billionaire known for his shocking statements, while on the other is a seasoned former Secretary of State – also the first woman to represent a major political party in a US presidential election.

However, for Clinton, political experience might not be an advantage against a television star like billionaire Donald Trump. She is also considered to lack persuasiveness and the ability to engage viewers. Trump, on the other hand, compensates for his limited political experience by enlisting the support of retired Lieutenant General Mike Flynn. Furthermore, his health issues will certainly be an advantage for Trump at this time.

In addition, the element of surprise—a hallmark of billionaire Donald Trump—is predicted to be unleashed at the last minute. For these reasons, some believe that the person under pressure on the evening of September 26th is Clinton, not Trump.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is confident on economic issues and counterterrorism. Photo: Getty.

However, this does not mean that Clinton cannot maintain and assert her advantages. These advantages include clarity and detail in all matters. This will be a strength when she has to answer any questions about the direction of America, rather than the broad and somewhat clichéd statements of her Republican opponent.

Furthermore, billionaire Donald Trump often impresses with his shocking statements, but what he has to deliver during a 90-minute live television broadcast is not so simple. How will he fill half of that time, and what content will he use, so that voters don't perceive him as joking or mocking someone? Therefore, it can be said that the strengths and weaknesses of both candidates are evenly balanced.

Election differences

Not only were Clinton and Trump evenly matched in terms of personal characteristics and style, but they also fiercely competed in their campaign promises and platforms. While Trump led on economic issues and counterterrorism, Hillary Clinton gained an advantage on foreign policy, immigration, and social welfare. On each issue facing the United States, the two candidates had very different commitments and approaches.

For example, on the issue of the minimum wage, while Clinton supported raising the minimum wage, Trump wanted states to decide the specific amount themselves. Similarly, regarding executive power, billionaire Trump asserted that he would not repeat the "unconstitutional" actions of President Obama, while Clinton expressed support for the current president.

Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton has the advantage of political experience and the unwavering support of incumbent President Barack Obama. Photo: Reuters.

Regarding refugees and immigration, while Trump opposed accepting migrants from Syria, Clinton pledged to expand the refugee program and allow approximately 65,000 migrants to enter the United States. A notable point in the area of ​​trade was that both candidates declared they would turn their backs on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), causing public confusion.

Although evenly matched on many issues, neither has truly achieved a breakthrough, creating one of the most closely contested presidential elections in US history between former Secretary of State Clinton and billionaire Donald Trump. This is also why 20% of American voters remain undecided.

At this moment, simplicity, persuasiveness, memorability, and credibility are what American voters need. Following this first debate, the public will be waiting to see how the two candidates perform in the next two encounters on October 9th and 19th. Who will gain more voter support is the unknown that every American wants to know right now!

Phuong Hoa