You can read NewsNation’s analysis of the CNN Presidential Debate here. Not sure how to find NewsNation on your TV? Find your channel here.
You can also read about RFK Jr.’s debate counterprogramming here. RFK Jr. also joined NewsNation immediately after his event. Watch that interview here. Get fact–based, unbiased news coverage 24/7 with the NewsNation app.
(NewsNation) — The campaigns for President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump launched a barrage of advertisements ahead of and during the first presidential debate of the 2024 election.
The media blitz attacked both candidates, leaving no topic untouched.
Who won first presidential debate?
DNC billboard mocks Trump’s conviction
Hours before hitting the stage at the CNN Presidential Debate on Thursday, the Biden administration launched an elaborate seven-figure media blitz targeting Trump.
The full 38-second ad featured words from former Trump administration officials and allies used against him. Additionally, Biden and the Democratic National Committee (DNC) posted billboards welcoming Trump to Atlanta but reminding voters he’s a convicted felon.
Biden’s final move ahead of the debate was placing QR codes on sidewalks and buildings throughout the city, leading voters to a Project 2025 page. This page claims that Trump wants to take “away reproductive freedom nationwide” and use the presidency for revenge against personal enemies.
Takeways from Trump-Biden debate, RFK Jr. response
Trump targets Biden’s ability to serve
In response, Trump launched his own media blitz, featuring two 30-second TV ads.
The first focused on voter concerns such as the economy and the country’s opioid crisis, while the second ad questioned Biden’s physical fitness to serve as president for another four-year term.
The age of both Trump and Biden took center stage at Thursday’s debate, with both candidates addressing concerns about their capabilities to be the president despite their respective elderly ages.
Both Biden, 81, and Trump, 78, would be the oldest president elected in U.S. history if they win in November.
If Biden were elected in November, he’d be 86 at the end of his term. If Trump were elected in November, he’d be 82 at the end of his term.
Biden ad spending outpaces Trump by $50 million
Trump’s camp hasn’t disclosed the exact amount spent on their debate ads media blitz.
So far in this election, Trump has spent about $90 million, while Biden has spent more than $140 million.
NewsNation’s digital intern Isabelle Charboneau contributed to this report.
