The first TV debate of the election campaign was a heated showdown, with Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer battling it out. Despite a snap poll showing a close split in performance, front pages reacted differently. The Guardian highlighted clashes on migration, tax, and the NHS. The Telegraph focused on Starmer being put on the spot over tax issues, while the Express claimed Sunak delivered a “knockout blow” during the debate.
Post-debate fact checks revealed the contentious nature of Sunak’s claims about Labour’s tax plans, further contested by the opposition. From “rumbustious” to being accused of losing control, the headlines painted different pictures of the candidates’ performances. The Mail praised Sunak’s “trust factor”, while the Daily Record suggested a negative outlook on his behavior.
With both leaders facing criticism for faltering under pressure, the debate ignited election discussions. The Times accused Labour on tax issues, emphasizing a lack of divergence in policy plans. Despite the controversies, the audience reaction to the debate added a lighter touch, with laughter over NHS claims drawing attention.