Two US presidential candidates prepare for the first live debate

Ahead of the live debate between the two US presidential candidates taking place next week, on September 7, former US President Donald Trump gave a speech on tax policy and immigration issues at a campaign rally in the swing state of Wisconsin.

Meanwhile, Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris chose to rest in a hotel in Pennsylvania, another important "battleground" state, to focus on crafting sharp answers for the debate with her Republican opponent.

At a rally in Moisnee, Wisconsin, former President Trump pledged to impose unprecedented tariffs and tighten immigration policies if elected.

The Republican presidential candidate warned that even US allies like the European Union would face new trade restrictions if he wins the November 5 election.

Mr. Trump has also repeatedly portrayed immigrants as a serious threat to Wisconsin, claiming they are taking away jobs and harming Americans.

Meanwhile, Ms. Harris took advantage of a few days of rest in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to prepare for her face-to-face debate with Mr. Trump next week. After days of intense debate preparation, Ms. Harris visited a spice store and showed a sharp contrast to what Mr. Trump described as a “dark” tone.

When asked what her main message was in the debate on September 10, Ms. Harris emphasized: "It's time to close the book on division. It's time to unite the country and chart a new path forward."

Ms Harris also expressed her "honour" to receive recent endorsements from two prominent conservatives, former Vice President Dick Cheney and his daughter, former Congresswoman Liz Cheney. "It's important to put the national interest above partisan interest," she stressed.

Asked if she was ready to face Mr Trump, Ms Harris replied: "Yes, I am ready" to cheers from the crowd of supporters.

Ahead of the first debate between the two parties' candidates scheduled to take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on September 10, aides said Ms. Harris's central tactic was to try to make the Republican candidate lose his cool.

Ms Harris will also focus on Mr Trump's failures on issues such as building the US border wall, infrastructure and the COVID-19 pandemic, while hoping to avoid being drawn into personal attacks.