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During an interview on ABC News, host Martha Raddatz confronted Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey over a false claim made by Vice President Kamala Harris during the recent presidential debate. Raddatz’s questioning focused on Harris’ assertion that no U.S. military personnel were in active combat zones, a statement that was quickly debunked as false.
During the discussion, Harris stated, “There is not one member of the United States military who is in active duty in a combat zone in any war zone around the world, the first time this century.” As Raddatz noted, there are now about 900 U.S. personnel stationed in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq; these forces routinely face threats from drones and missiles, so this comment prompted scrutiny. Furthermore, American Navy SEALs and Delta Force members participate in a range of hazardous missions throughout the world.
“Why would she say that?” Raddatz pressed Healey to provide a justification for Harris’ false assertion. Healey supported Harris by pointing out the larger background of the discussion and Harris’ general militaristic posture. “What’s important here, Martha, is that Kamala Harris, in contrast to Donald Trump, demonstrated herself to be commander in chief,” Healey stated. “We are in a world where there are all sorts of conflicts, and it’s all the more reason we need somebody who’s serious and who supports the military.”
Despite Healey’s defense, Raddatz reiterated the discrepancy, questioning whether Harris was unaware of the U.S. military presence in Syria and Iraq. Healey redirected the conversation to criticize former President Donald Trump’s stance on military issues, arguing that Trump has shown disrespect for the military.
Raddatz also questioned Healey on Harris’ position on abortion, prompting Healey to reference Harris’ stance on returning to the protections established by Roe v. Wade.
ABC’s Linsey Davis admitted in a post-debate interview that the fact-checking strategy was impacted by earlier debates where criticisms were not sufficiently addressed. According to Davis, “People were concerned that statements were allowed to just hang and not be disputed by the candidates or moderators.”
The exchange highlighted the challenges in moderating debates and ensuring accurate information is presented to the public.