US presidential candidates clash in final debate before November election

The final presidential debate of the 2026 US election cycle took place, with both candidates trading sharp blows over key policy issues as they make their closing arguments to American voters ahead of November's general election.

Key exchanges

The candidates clashed most intensely on foreign policy, with the Ukraine conflict, Middle East, and US-China relations all drawing significant attention. On the economy, they presented divergent visions on inflation, trade, and energy policy. Immigration policy also featured prominently with both candidates taking markedly different positions.

Post-debate reactions

Post-debate polls showed a divided electorate, with partisans on each side claiming victory for their candidate. With less than three weeks until election day, the race remains extremely close in key battleground states according to the latest polling averages.