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Trump Praises Fox News Host Jesse Watters After Debate, But Not All Feedback Was Positive

Donald Trump praised Jesse Watters after the latest debate, but Fox News hosts offered mixed reviews, with some criticizing Trump's performance and the moderators.

Donald Trump walks away after speaking to reporters in the spin room after a presidential debate with Kamala Harris, Sept. 10, 2024, in Philadelphia. | Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP

Following the latest debate, Donald Trump turned to Fox News and thanked host Jesse Watters for his comments on his performance, calling it a “GREAT evening!” However, despite Trump’s positive spin, the overall feedback from Fox’s moderators and anchors wasn’t entirely flattering.

Watters’ Mixed Assessment of Trump’s Debate

Jesse Watters, while acknowledged by Trump for his remarks, provided a nuanced take on the event. “I don’t think the American people are watching and thinking any of these people won,” Watters said, adding that the debate was intense but lacked standout moments for anyone other than Trump. He noted that Trump may have “made the race tighter,” but emphasized that the debate was a tough watch.

Criticism From Fox News Moderators

Other Fox News personalities also weighed in, with more critical views. Anchor Martha MacCallum pointed out that the moderators from ABC News failed to challenge Kamala Harris on how her positions have shifted over the years. Meanwhile, she also noted that Trump “went down a few cat and dog holes” during the debate.

Political analyst Brit Hume was even more blunt in his assessment of Trump’s performance. “Make no mistake about it, Trump had a bad night,” Hume said, explaining that Trump repeatedly took the bait during exchanges with Harris, which likely went against the advice of his campaign team. Hume added, “We heard so many of the old grievances that we thought Trump had learned were not winners politically.”

Sean Hannity Blames Moderators for a Weak Debate

Fox News host Sean Hannity took a different approach, shifting the blame to the ABC News moderators for what he saw as a lackluster debate. “I think the biggest loser in the debate is ABC,” Hannity said, criticizing the moderators for not pressing Harris on her record in key areas like health care and the economy. Hannity later hosted Trump on his show, where the former president reiterated his critique of the moderators.

In the end, while Trump may have felt he had a strong night, the analysis from Fox News painted a more mixed picture. Watters may have received Trump’s praise, but even he acknowledged the debate’s overall intensity and lack of memorable moments from anyone other than Trump.

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