By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
The much-anticipated presidential debate between Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican nominee former President Donald Trump has concluded, and discussions surrounding the event have already begun. The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle (ULMS) hosted a watch party at Lucky Strike sports bar in Bellevue, where a packed house gathered to support their respective candidates.
“Honestly, this event was just amazing,” said Kaleigha Ling, Events Manager for the ULMS. “Seeing just Black and Brown, just everyone coming together, understanding what is going on in policies within America, this is huge.”
Ling noted that the event was not only an opportunity for people to come together, socialize and witness the historic presidential debate, but it was also an opportunity to galvanize and encourage people, especially young people, to vote in the upcoming election.
“Right now, we are trying to get that younger vote, and tonight it is great to see all of these young professionals within the Urban League as well as throughout the community,” said Ling. “So, honestly, truly just seeing everyone come together in the space where we feel comfortable, and we feel like we can be heard and understand one another, it is just such a privilege to be able to host not just a watch party for, say, a boxing match, but a watch party for what is important—the policies that affect our everyday lives.”
The event showcased the diversity within the Black community, drawing people from all walks of life and from across the region, representing organizations like the D9 Fraternal and Sorority groups, Black businesses, and those in education and politics. Some of the D9 attendees proudly wore their organization’s paraphernalia, creating an energetic and welcoming space to witness history as it unfolded on the big screen.
Excitement filled the air as the debate began promptly at six. As Harris and Trump sparred over key issues such as abortion, the economy, immigration, and democracy, reactions from the crowd were animated, as many of the attendees responded with “oohs,” “aahs,” and even boos as the candidates debated topics that matter to everyday Americans.
“This event was very important,” said Karissa Braxton, Senior Communication Advisor for the Office of Seattle Mayor Bruce A. Harrell. “I appreciate the fact that it was multi-generational and it brought together members of our community from all walks of life really paying attention to the issues that are most impactful for all of us as Americans and all here in the state of Washington, in the Seattle area.”
Based on crowd reactions, it appeared that most attendees favored Harris, as her responses were met with more enthusiasm than Trump’s. The candidates provided starkly different viewpoints on policy issues, giving the audience a clear look at the contrasting visions for the future of the country.
On domestic policies surrounding abortion, immigration, and the economy, the candidates could not have been more different, as though they were describing two separate Americas. Foreign policy discussions were similarly divisive, with Harris and Trump offering distinct paths toward peace in global hotspots like Gaza and Ukraine, as well as different approaches to managing relationships with Russia, China, and the Middle East.
“I think that Kamala Harris presented coherent thoughts,” said Braxton. “I believe that she was able to indicate that she does have tangible policy plans—policy plans that will not just address the immediate issues and the immediate needs of our society right now but will truly put us on a different trajectory for the future of our society.”
The pro-Harris crowd left the event energized and optimistic about the possibility of her becoming the first female and first Black president of the United States.
“I came out to the function here at Lucky Strike, it was wonderful,” said Lindsey, a retiree. “Our Madam Vice President drove the narrative, was under control, and did a fantastic job. I can’t wait for her administration to begin in January.”
“This event was straight, one to not miss,” said Jonathan Jean-Pierre, an alumnus of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. “Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who understand what this country needs, and the ability to put aside the nonsense that is coming from the opposing side, I think this event shows the strength of the two different sides of what this election is coming down to. Us as educated minorities, educated folks in general, need to listen to what these candidates are saying and weed out the nonsense.”
“Honestly, I love Kamala Harris,” added Ling. “She did an amazing job, she stood her ground, she knew exactly the message she wanted to convey. Every time the moderator asked her a question, she was clear and concise. They kept saying, ‘it’s a simple question,’ but she took them and ran with it every single time.”
