Biden stumbled as he attacked Trump and defended his own record, pausing for several seconds.

The president was discussing domestic programs he hoped to be able to invest in with the money that would be gained by taxes the wealthiest Americans before trailing off and pausing, ultimately saying "we beat Medicare."

"He did beat Medicare, he beat it to death," Trump responded.

Asked how he would ensure that his plan to impose a 10% tariff on all goods coming to the U.S. wouldn't drive prices higher Trump said it won't drive them higher but will force countries like China to "pay us a lot of money" and "give us a lot of power for other things," though didn't elaborate.

Biden fielded the first question from moderator Jake Tapper, who asked him what his message was to Americans who feel worse off financially under his administration than they did under Trump.

Biden claimed he was handed an economy in "free fall." He touted his record on job creation and lowering prescription drug prices and other household costs.

Trump, in turn, claimed he he had "the greatest economy in the history of our country" and that inflation is "absolutely killing us."

Biden and Trump are now at the lecterns. The two entered from different sides of the stage and did not shake hands.