Key Points:

• Kamala Harris focused on the rising housing costs during the debate, outlining her plans to address the issue.
• Donald Trump avoided discussing housing, focusing more on personal attacks and identity politics.
• Experts expressed disappointment over the lack of meaningful conversation on housing policies.

Debate Overview: Harris Pushes Housing, Trump Avoids Topic

In their first 2024 presidential debate, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump clashed on various topics. However, housing costs, a major concern for many American families, saw one-sided attention. Harris consistently raised the issue of affordable housing, while Trump largely sidestepped the topic.

Harris’ Housing Solutions

Kamala Harris wasted no time in bringing up the housing crisis, highlighting the lack of affordable homes and the challenges for first-time buyers. She proposed increasing home construction and providing federal assistance for down payments, up to $25,000 for first-time buyers. Harris emphasized that her policies would help 3 million new homes be built by the end of her first term. She also addressed rising property insurance costs due to climate change.

Trump’s Silence on Housing

Throughout the 90-minute debate, Trump failed to address Harris’ housing proposals. Despite having previously outlined ideas like halting illegal immigration and deregulating the home-building industry, Trump didn’t discuss any specific housing policies during the debate.

Expert Reactions

Ralph McLaughlin, a senior economist at Realtor.com, noted the missed opportunity for a meaningful conversation about housing policies. He praised Harris for bringing the issue to the forefront but criticized Trump for ignoring it, leaving voters with little understanding of his housing plans.