Vice President Kamala Harris is gearing up for a critical debate with former President Donald Trump set for Sept. 10 in Philadelphia.

Known for a series of sharp, memorable debate takedown moments in the past, Harris is hoping to create another impactful performance that will generate enthusiasm among the electorate, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Harris is no stranger to high-profile debates, having previously made headlines with powerful one-liners in both presidential and vice-presidential contests.

Her history in national debates includes multiple appearances in 2019 as a presidential candidate and a highly watched vice-presidential debate against Mike Pence in 2020.

Notable Debate Moments in Harris’s History

In her 2020 debate with then-VP Pence, Harris famously interrupted him multiple times with the phrase, "I'm speaking," a moment that resonated with viewers. This became one of her signature lines, showcasing her ability to assert herself on the debate stage. She has since used this line effectively in various public appearances outside of debates, solidifying her reputation for delivering sharp retorts.

Harris also captured attention during the 2019 Democratic Party primary debates with a personal story aimed at then-rival Joe Biden. She confronted him on his stance against school busing desegregation by sharing, "That little girl was me," referring to her own experience with busing. This moment was pivotal, temporarily boosting her poll numbers during the primary campaign.

Memorable Debate Lines and Exchanges

Beyond these moments, Harris is known for delivering lines that strike a chord with her audience. In a heated 2019 debate, amidst interruptions and shouting between candidates, Harris took control of the conversation by saying, “America does not want to witness a food fight. They want to know how we’re going to put food on their table.” Her ability to refocus the debate on real-world concerns earned her positive reactions and reinforced her communication strengths.

Before her presidential campaign, Harris made a name for herself as a tough questioner during Senate hearings. In 2018, she questioned then-Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh on women’s rights by asking, “Can you think of any laws that give government the power to make decisions about the male body?” This exchange highlighted her focus on gender equality, a theme she has consistently emphasized in her political career.

Challenges Harris Faces in This Debate

One of the challenges Harris faces heading into this debate is a potential confrontation with Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic rival who is now advising Donald Trump. During the 2019 Democratic primary season, Gabbard criticized Harris’s record as a prosecutor, accusing her of hypocrisy on marijuana enforcement. Many analysts viewed this exchange as a turning point in Harris’s campaign, casting doubts on her criminal justice record. This criticism may resurface as Gabbard prepares Trump for his debate performance.

Harris has also faced scrutiny for her approach to questioning high-ranking officials. In a notable 2019 Senate hearing, she grilled then-Attorney General William Barr about whether the president or the White House had ever suggested opening investigations.

Barr’s hesitant response, “Trying to grapple with the word, ‘suggest,’” led to a viral moment where Harris pressed him further, “Sir, I’m asking a question.” This exchange not only demonstrated her prosecutorial style but also became a talking point among her supporters and critics.

The Importance of This Debate for Harris

With the debate against Trump on the horizon, Harris has an opportunity to solidify her role as a formidable opponent. The stakes are high, and her previous moments in debates and hearings will likely be referenced in the upcoming face-off.

The vice president’s team will be looking to recreate the success of her past performances, such as her calm and confident responses during tense exchanges.

As she prepares to take on Trump, Harris’s history of delivering succinct, impactful statements will be crucial. Her performance could have broader implications, not only for her political career but for the Biden-Harris administration as a whole.

The debate will serve as a test of her ability to navigate the challenges posed by Trump’s unpredictable debate style.

Conclusion: Harris Looks to Recreate Past Debate Success

Kamala Harris’s upcoming debate with Donald Trump presents an opportunity for her to showcase the sharp wit and commanding presence she has displayed in past debates and Senate hearings.

From her memorable "I'm speaking" moment with Mike Pence to her pointed questioning of figures like Brett Kavanaugh and William Barr, Harris has built a reputation for delivering lines that resonate. However, the presence of Tulsi Gabbard, who once delivered a damaging critique of Harris’s record, adds an extra layer of complexity to this high-stakes encounter.

In summary, Harris will aim to replicate her past debate successes while facing new challenges from both Trump and his team. The outcome of the debate could significantly impact her political trajectory and the broader conversation about the 2024 election.