Smith County Republican, Democratic party chairs react to first presidential debate

TYLER, Texas (KETK) — After last night’s first presidential debate of the 2024 election between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, East Texas party chairs are reacting to what they saw.

On FOX51 Good Day, both Smith County Republican Party Chair David Stein and Democratic Party Chair Hector Garza gave us their thoughts on what they saw at last nights debate.

“The fireworks weren’t as explosive as we anticipated them being, “said Garza.

Throughout the debate hosted by CNN, both Trump and Biden took jabs at each other on numerous topics and were making their case in front of America on why they should get a second term in office.

Stein weighed in on how he thought Trump performed against the current president.

“He was presidential,” said Stein. “He articulated his points. He talked about his record. He tried to say away from personal. Unfortunately, President Biden went there first and the president was well prepared to respond.”

Garza said he wishes Biden could have done better, but he remains confident in his abilities to lead the country.

“We know that Joe Biden has never been the eloquent speaker,” he said. “Four years ago, if you look at him, he still the guy that mumbles, he’s still the guy that’s not as eloquent that gets confused with his words. I think that as long as his policy and his focus remain the way they are today, then this country is going to be okay for the next few years.”

Despite a few jabs at each other, Garza told KETK he thought for the most part both candidates stayed on track throughout the debate.

“I think both candidates stuck pretty much stuck to the issues, stuck to the American issues, and spoke out about what we wanted to hear,” said Garza.

Stein said he thinks Americans trust Trump more to handle the economy.

“There is no argument as far as what has happened,” Stein said. “The record couldn’t be more clear. We are all paying more at the grocery store for what we are buying.”

You can watch the full interviews with both Stein and Garza embedded in the story above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.