Yes, Trump had more energy than Biden during the debate, but he’s not the better candidate

Since the presidential debate, I’ve responded to dozens of surveys that have come out to Americans.

Now that we have had time to reflect, I have my own scorecard for the debate.

  1. Which candidate showed more vitality? Trump

  2. Which candidate performed as expected? Trump

  3. Which candidate answered the questions without deflecting or gaslighting? Biden

  4. Which candidate gave truthful answers about proven facts? Biden

  5. Which candidate spewed the most grievances? Trump

  6. Which candidate most needed fact-checking on the spot? Trump

  7. Which candidate could cite accomplishments that have benefitted ordinary citizens? Biden

  8. Which candidate was convincing that he will work for democracy and the rule of law? Biden

  9. Which candidate seemed like a good man? Biden

  10. Which candidate seemed crazy? Trump

The Democrat candidate, President Joe Biden, and Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, attend a debate ahead of the U.S. presidential election, in Atlanta, Georgia on June 27, 2024.
The Democrat candidate, President Joe Biden, and Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, attend a debate ahead of the U.S. presidential election, in Atlanta, Georgia on June 27, 2024.

The debate was not what Biden’s supporters hoped for. Whatever happens in the next few months, I hope voters will focus on something more than which candidate has the most energy.

Presidential debate failure shows Joe Biden must step aside as the Democratic nominee

A hyperactive Trump may be able to outdo the Energizer Bunny, but what does that mean? Can we forget that he is a bully, a moral coward, a convicted felon?

Can we forget that he is a would-be dictator who wants an America we won’t recognize?

A president must have stamina to do the tremendous work that this office requires, the kind of work Biden has done. But voters must realize there are other credentials that real leaders have: integrity, a moral compass, and courage to do what’s right.

Phyllis Gobbell, Nashville 37205

Agree or disagree? Or have a view on another topic entirely? Send a letter of 250 words or fewer to [email protected]. Include your full name, city/town, ZIP and contact information for verification. Thanks for adding to the public conversa

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Biden-Trump debate: Incumbent lacked vigor, but he's the better man