During the recent debate, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump did not shake hands upon entering the debate stage. This lack of handshake is not a new occurrence, as the two candidates also refrained from shaking hands during their last debate in 2020, citing Covid-19 protocols as the reason.
Prior to the debate, two longtime Biden aides shared their expectations that Biden would likely not extend his hand for a handshake. One of the aides mentioned, 'He didn't have to in 2020, why change that now?' This decision to forgo the handshake aligns with the ongoing health and safety measures in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The absence of a handshake between the two candidates reflects the continued impact of the pandemic on social interactions, even at high-profile events such as presidential debates. While handshakes have traditionally been a common gesture of respect and civility in political settings, the current circumstances have necessitated adjustments to these norms.
As the debate unfolded, the focus shifted from the lack of a handshake to the candidates' policy positions and exchanges on various issues. Both President Biden and former President Trump presented their viewpoints on key topics, engaging in a spirited discussion that highlighted their differing approaches to governance.
Despite the absence of a handshake, the debate proceeded smoothly, with each candidate having the opportunity to articulate their positions and respond to questions from the moderator. The event served as a platform for voters to assess the candidates' stances on important issues and make informed decisions ahead of the upcoming election.
In conclusion, while the lack of a handshake between President Biden and former President Trump may have been notable, the focus ultimately shifted to the substantive discussions that took place during the debate. As the election season progresses, voters will continue to evaluate the candidates based on their policies, leadership qualities, and vision for the future.
