Defending Trump's debate performance and his suitability for the presidency could involve several counterarguments. Supporters might argue that Trump's unfiltered style resonates with a significant portion of the electorate who appreciate his authenticity and willingness to speak his mind. They may contend that his remarks about crowd sizes and other controversial topics are indicative of his commitment to engaging with his base, which values his outsider status and challenges to the political establishment.
Additionally, proponents could assert that Trump's past successes as president, such as tax reforms and deregulation, demonstrate his capability to lead effectively, regardless of his debate performance. They might argue that debates are not the sole indicator of presidential effectiveness and that Trump's ability to connect with voters on the campaign trail and through social media is more critical. Furthermore, supporters could claim that the media's portrayal of his performance is biased, framing him in a negative light while downplaying his achievements and the challenges he faced during the debate.