As the US presidential election approaches, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are intensifying their efforts to sway undecided voters. With just weeks remaining before the November vote, a recent debate has been pivotal for many still on the fence.

In interviews with the BBC, six undecided voters shared their thoughts on Tuesday night’s 90-minute debate, which they saw as a crucial factor in their decision-making process.

Vanessa, who had been leaning towards Trump before the debate, found Harris’s performance noteworthy. “I’m still leaning towards Trump, but I’m less apprehensive about a potential Harris presidency after seeing her debate skills. I didn’t change my mind, but I’m less worried about her handling things if she wins,” Vanessa said. She expressed lingering mistrust in the Democratic Party following issues with Joe Biden’s health, making her cautious about shifting her vote.

Jeremy, who had been dissatisfied with Trump and did not vote Democrat in previous elections, was convinced by Harris’s performance. “The debate made me genuinely fearful of a second Trump term. His rhetoric about immigrants and global conflict was alarmingly intense. While I don’t find Harris perfect, she seems less threatening compared to Trump,” Jeremy stated.

Tracy remains uncertain but was impressed by Harris’s responses. “Both candidates performed well, but Harris seemed to address more questions effectively. I hadn’t seen much of her before, and while I’m still undecided, I felt Trump came off as shifty and less trustworthy,” she commented.

William, who felt the debate clarified the candidates’ positions, is now leaning towards Harris. “Trump’s answers were erratic, and he seemed distracted by irrelevant topics like crowd size. Harris appeared more prepared and composed. I’d like to see more of her in future interviews to solidify my support,” William said.

Rohan, who remains split but slightly favors Harris, found the debate insightful. “The debate didn’t alter my view of Trump much, but it did give me a better sense of Harris’s presence and policy positions. She seemed rehearsed but managed to provoke Trump, which was revealing. I’m 51% for Harris and 49% for Trump right now, but that could change,” he explained.

Chance, still undecided, was underwhelmed by the debate’s depth. “The discussion lacked substance and felt more like a series of personal attacks rather than policy debates. Although I’m not a fan of either candidate, I would lean towards Harris based on the debate,” Chance concluded.