Following the recent presidential debate, former President Donald Trump declared himself the winner, but at the same time criticized President Joe Biden‘s performance.
What happened: Trump described his performance in Saturday’s debate on his Truth Social platform as “the best in the long and storied history of presidential debates.”
In the post, he expressed his disappointment that the spotlight had shifted to Biden’s lackluster performance rather than his own triumph.
“As I walked off the stage at the end of the highly anticipated ‘debate’ Thursday night, moderators, political reporters and everyone else were screaming that I had delivered the best debate performance in the long and storied history of presidential debates,” Trump posted. “They all basically said, ‘Trump was fantastic!'”
“But on Friday night it was all about Crooked Joe’s poor performance and not so much about how good I was. Well, that’s the way it is, but the important thing is that the result is the same!!!”
Also read: After the debate, the latest polls among Democrats suggest Joe Biden is in big trouble – although there is a bright spot
At a rally in Virginia on Friday, Trump lashed out at Biden, calling him a “stupid, stupid, stupid man.” Although Biden assured himself of his preferred network and the rules for the debate, Trump claimed that “no amount of calm or manipulation” could help him on stage.
Biden’s performance, which was characterized by blank stares, quibbling and lack of energy, has raised concerns among Democrats. There have been calls in both parties for Biden to resign, but the White House and Biden’s campaign have resisted these calls.
Why it is important: Trump’s declaration of victory follows a series of political successes. Despite being criticized for his own performance in the debate, Trump took advantage of Biden’s apparent memory lapses and strained voice, which have raised concerns about the 81-year-old president’s health.
Trump’s sharp retorts during the debate have caused unease among Democrats.
Christian Grose, a professor of political science and public policy at the University of Southern California, said: “Trump only benefits in the sense that Biden has not benefitted.”
Read now: Biden faces heavy criticism for debate performance, but poll also points to worrying signs for Trump
This content was partially created with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
