In a recent interview, foreign policy experts expressed disappointment over the limited attention given to national security during Tuesday night’s debate.

Speaking on the matter, Victoria Coates, a former White House official, noted that the Biden-Harris administration has failed to address escalating global threats.

She criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for being “detached from reality,” particularly in her comments about the military’s respect for Donald Trump.

Coates emphasized the urgency of focusing on issues like China, calling it the “preeminent security threat” facing the U.S. Despite growing tensions in the South China Sea and a surge in Chinese nationals crossing the U.S. southern border, China was largely absent from the debate discussion.

Coates also highlighted President Trump’s early recognition of China as a major threat during his 2017 National Security Strategy.

Turning to Israel, Coates pointed to significant military actions, including the Israeli Defense Forces’ dismantling of Hamas forces and airstrikes targeting Hezbollah commanders.

However, she noted the failure to discuss the recent execution of American hostage Goldberg Poland by Hamas, a shocking escalation that was not addressed by either candidate or the moderators.

Coates further critiqued the Biden administration for its handling of the southern border, noting that their approach has deliberately created a crisis, ignoring offers of assistance from Latin American leaders.

With growing security concerns, including warnings of a heightened terror threat after the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, Coates stressed the need for urgent action to address these vulnerabilities.