Trump and Biden's first debate marked by insults

(Patria) - US President Donald Trump and his challenger Joe Biden clashed fiercely in one of the most heated debates between White House candidates in recent years.

In a duel punctuated by angry shouting and name-calling, they discussed the pandemic, protest violence, the economy, and even their families.

Discussed six topics

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Tuesday night's debate at Case Western Reserve University had a limited and socially distanced audience, and the traditional handshake was skipped.

The forum focused on six topics in 15-minute segments - the candidates' records, the Supreme Court, the pandemic, racial protests and violence in cities, election integrity, and the economy.

The debate was interrupted by personal insults. Biden (77) called Trump (74) a "clown," accusing him of inciting "racist hatred" and calling him "Putin's puppy."

He also told his rival: "You are the worst president America has ever had." As things got even more personal, Trump spoke about Biden's son using drugs.

The candidates constantly interrupted each other. Trump was the most prominent in this, not allowing Biden to fully answer his questions. At one point, Biden told him to shut up, but that didn't deter Trump, and he continued his way.

Called each other a liar

As they argued about healthcare, Trump accused his opponent of leaning towards the socialists in his party, saying: "They will dominate you, Joe, you know that."

- I am the Democratic Party right now - Biden retorted.

He added that "everything Trump is saying right now is simply a lie."

- I'm not here to call out his lies. Everyone knows he's a liar - Biden said.

Trump retaliated in kind: "Joe, you're a liar."

Called Trump a "clown"

The worst clashes occurred when the candidates discussed their families.

At one point, the president wondered why the company founded by his challenger's son, Hunter Biden, received $3.5 million from a Moscow billionaire, as stated in a report released by Senate Republicans.

Joe Biden denied this, after which an argument ensued.

As the moderator tried to intervene, the Democrat said: "It's hard to get a word in with this clown, excuse me, this person."

He added: "I mean, we could talk about his family all night."

Later, Biden referred to claims by anonymous sources that Trump had once called members of the military "losers," a report that was denied by the president and a number of his former and current aides.