US election debate takeaways: Trump lies endlessly and is Biden too old to serve?

President mumbled as ex-president avoided questions in a debate showcasing voters’ two main options in November

Republican presidential candidate, former President Donald Trump (L) looks at US president Joe Biden during the CNN Presidential Debate. Picture: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

The reality of the 2024 presidential contest is setting in now that the first debate of the election cycle showcased the two main options voters have in November.

Joe Biden, apparently sick with a cold, mumbled through the debate, failing to land otherwise well-crafted lines. Donald Trump, a prolific purveyor of falsehoods, repeatedly told lies and avoided answering tough questions.