Global Concerns Rise After Chaotic Presidential Debate

During Thursday night’s debate, President Biden told former President Donald J. Trump that the United States is the “envy of the world.” However, the performance of the candidates during the debate has left many around the world concerned, particularly in Asia.

In countries like Seoul, Singapore, and Sydney, analysts are expressing worries after witnessing the exchange between the assertive Mr. Trump and the hesitant Mr. Biden. The back-and-forth has raised questions about the potential impact of U.S. politics on stability in Asia, where the need for a strong and reliable U.S. presence is crucial.

Simon Canning, a communications manager in Australia, described the debate as “an unmitigated disaster,” highlighting the concerns shared by many about the state of affairs in the United States. Countries in Asia, who had been working to rebuild alliances with the U.S. after the tumultuous first term of Mr. Trump, are now uncertain about the future.

Chan Heng Chee, former Singaporean ambassador to the United States, noted a decline in the quality of debates compared to previous years. The disjointed performance of Mr. Biden and the aggressive demeanor of Mr. Trump have left observers questioning the ability of the candidates to lead effectively on the global stage.

In a world where visuals and appearances hold significant weight, the lack of civility in the debate and the disregard for facts have added to the concerns of global partners who rely on the United States for stability and leadership.