Atlanta debate observers unhappy with candidates’ responses

ATLANTA — Atlanta voters appeared unhappy with the performance of President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump in Thursday night’s debate.

As watch parties were taking place throughout metro Atlanta, 11Alive visited Manuel’s Tavern to see what attendees were saying. Many seemed particularly annoyed that they hadn’t answered questions on many of the top issues Americans care about.

“The housing crisis is real,” said one Georgia voter. “I would like to buy a home someday, and it’s getting harder and harder. I haven’t heard any of them come up with a plan that would make it easier, and that’s a little disappointing.”

Another voter was unhappy with how each candidate talked about the Black maternal health crisis as it related to abortion and women’s health rights.

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“They brought it up, which really surprised me,” another voter said. “I don’t think any of them answered the question.”

Many other city political leaders spoke after the debate, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who said President Joe Biden missed an opportunity to “tighten his message.”

“Speak clearly, speak frankly, speak confidently,” Dickens said.

He also expressed his support for the current president and what he has done for the country.

“Joe Biden has done a magnificent job supporting cities, and I stand with him,” Dickens said.

Across the aisle, businessman and politician Vivek Ramaswamy spoke to reporters and said it was clear to him that former President Donald Trump had won the debate.

“He exceeded my high expectations,” he said. “He won that debate hands down.”