OHIO: Republican President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger, former Vice President Joe Biden, have engaged in heated debates, five weeks ahead of the November 3 election.

The long-awaited battle between Trump and Biden got off to a messy start as they immediately clashed over the new Supreme Court vacancy and healthcare, international media reports said.

Millions have been watching all the action from Cleveland, Ohio.

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There was a limited studio audience with subject to strict social distancing measures.

Trump has been under fire over allegations of tax avoidance.

Likewise, Biden criticized Trump’s management of the coronavirus response.

(With inputs from Agencies)