Water over the dam. The debate is long gone. But you can’t help wondering — has Donald put it out of his mind or does he replay it in his sleep, imagining where he blew it? Or because he insists he won the debate, does he even realize he blew it? God knows you replay it, agonizingly. How could Donald have missed the golden opportunity Harris gave him? She wanted the American people to know that she felt their pain. Repeatedly, she said, “The American people are hurting.” Nearly every time she had the floor, whatever the subject, she wanted to show her personal empathy — “the American people are hurting.” Not only did she repeat it, she explained how they were hurting — struggling with the cost of living. My God, President Trump, she teed it up! You sat in the room with three people, about to have a seizure. You wanted to hear him say something like this:

“David (Muir), with all due respect, I want to take my time to thank Ms. Harris for acknowledging that the American people are hurting. It’s mighty nice of her to offer solace. I’m positive they appreciate her comfort. And Kamala, I want you to know I agree with you, wholeheartedly — millions of Americans are in financial trouble — the prices of goods and services are out the roof — the cost of energy — really the cost of everything — being able to afford a home. But, you know, I haven’t been as sensitive to their pain as I should because since 2020 I’ve been distracted somewhat — you know, with personal issues — indictments, my home raided by the FBI, court time and a few other headaches. I would liked to have helped during the past four years. However, tonight, with half the country tuning in, Kamala, this is your opportunity to tell the American people, and people around the world — just who is responsible for how much they’re hurting. They have a right to know, don’t they?

Most likely, Kalama would have explained how she had special insight into growing up in a middle class family — about how hard her Mother worked. She might say that finding fault with people working hard to do their jobs, is not constructive. That it’s a new day in America, and “I’m dedicated to finding A New Way Forward.”

If DT had seized upon his opportunity, the debate would not have ended in arguable victory for either candidate. You suggest it would have buried the Harris run. And Trump voters wouldn’t be going nuts. But Donald still has a golden opportunity. He should hire a top drawer creative team. Produce a 15 second national ad. Choose several versions of her emotional statement — Kamala’s voice back to her– “the American people are hurting.” Repeat it several times — with the following text displayed for half the spot.

Just Who Is Responsible For How Much They Are Hurting?

www.conventionofstates.com