Their first exchange of the debate delved into the economy. Biden spoke softly, in a hoarse voice, as he talked up the economic gains on his watch, saying he rescued it from “free fall” and “chaos” when he took over the presidency from Trump in 2021. He cleared his throat several times. Trump listened with a bemused expression but did not try to interrupt, though his microphone was muted while Biden spoke. When it was his turn to speak, Trump bragged about the state of the economy during his term, saying “everything was rocking good.” He blamed Biden for rising prices that have frustrated Americans. “Inflation is killing our country,” Trump said. “It's absolutely killing us.”