Biden-trump debate gives world reason to worry

The following is from a Japan News-yomiuri editorial:

In recent U.S. presidential elections, there has never been an example of candidates openly showing such hatred toward their opponents. The debate speaks volumes about the deterioration of U.S. politics.

President Donald Trump, a Republican, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic candidate, held a TV debate for the November presidential election. It was the first time for the two candidates to engag e in a direct debate, but it did not lead to polic y debates due to so many personal attacks and one interrupting the other while speaking.

Trump put more emphasis on denigrating Biden than on explaining the achievements of his first term as president. Trump's constant nagging, without heeding the moderator, was no different from his style of speaking at supporter rallies, and totally lacked the quality of a president.

What should be asked in the presidential election is whether Trump's politics, which encourage division, should continue.

Biden pursued Trump's responsibility, saying that the president "panicked" because he had no plan to deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Biden also described Trump as the "worst president America has ever had" and labeled him a "racist."

The differences between the two candidates are reflected in their supporters. It will not be easy for Biden, who advocates national reconciliation, to win over Trump supporters.

Trump also refused to say whether he would accept the election result. The president himself must refrain from denying the credibility of elections, which are the basis of democracy.

If confusion over casting and counting of votes is prolonged and a power vacuum is created, it will affect the entire world. Trump should be aware of its significance.