'I'm Talking Now': Trump tells Harris in debate, drawing parallel to 2020 exchange

The exchange highlighted the ongoing tension between the two candidates as they sparred over key issues in front of a national audience.

During a heated debate on Tuesday, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump firmly addressed Vice President Kamala Harris after she attempted to interject while he was speaking. In a pointed exchange, Trump responded, "Wait a minute, I'm talking now, if you don't mind, please," drawing a clear parallel to a similar moment in 2020 when Harris criticised then-Vice President Mike Pence for interrupting her.

Trump continued, adding with a hint of sarcasm, "Does that sound familiar?" His remark referenced Harris's famous retort from the 2020 vice-presidential debate, where she asserted, "I'm speaking," in response to Pence's interruptions.

The debate began with an "awkward handshake" as the two took the stage, setting the tone for a tense evening. Shortly after the debate commenced, Trump quickly shifted the focus to immigration and border security, making it a central issue of his critique.

In response to a question about the economy, Trump pivoted to immigration, claiming, "Millions of people are pouring into our country." He painted a dire picture of American towns being overwhelmed by an influx of immigrants, specifically naming Springfield, Ohio, and Aurora, Colorado. "You see what's happening with towns throughout the United States," Trump asserted.

"They're taking over the towns. They're taking over buildings. They're going in violently. These are the people that she and Biden led into our country, and they're destroying our country. They're dangerous. They're at the highest level of criminality. And we have to get them out."

Also read: Trump labels Harris a 'Marxist' in heated debate, claims she has 'destroyed' America

The former president also took aim at Harris's handling of the economy, accusing her of failing to develop a concrete plan to combat rising inflation. The debate highlighted the stark contrasts between the two candidates' visions for the country's future, with Trump repeatedly questioning Harris's competence and leadership.

(with agency inputs)