Welcome to McClatchy’s Voter Survival Guide, an interactive presentation of daily events from one of the strangest presidential campaigns in modern history.
Millions watched, Tweeted and reacted to the first presidential debate, a political spectacle that captured the attention of the nation.
Hillary Clinton stayed calm and largely controlled the debate. She attacked Donald Trump for his father loaning him millions and repeatedly went after his financial record, including failing to release tax returns and failed business ventures.
Trump had a good first 15 minutes, he attacked Clinton on the North American Free Trade Agreement and the Trans-Pacific Partnership. But Clinton clearly got under his skin by the end of the debate, as Trump referred to her as “Hillary” instead of “Secretary Clinton.”
The next few days will be dominated by a variety of angles and analysis of Monday’s debate. Vice presidential candidates Tim Kaine and Mike Pence will debate next Tuesday.
The polls open nationally in 41 days. Let’s get started.
Trump remains Trump, but Clinton doesn’t take the bait
All that debate prep seemed to pay off. Clinton appeared in control throughout the debate. Donald Trump appeared defensive and often interupted both Clinton and moderator Lester Holt. In fact, the more Trump attacked, the more she smiled.
Undecided voters went for Clinton
Both Trump and Clinton had their positive moments, Trump was able to talk about trade while Clinton successfully deflected Trump’s questions on her trustworthiness.
But the majority of pundits declared Clinton the winner, although it was far from a knockout blow.