Key Battles in the Pre-Election Spotlight: Trump vs Harris Versus Market Predictions

The summary touches on key political happenings as the US approaches the November 5 election. Notably, Donald Trump declines a debate with Kamala Harris, pledges tax cuts for overseas Americans, and campaigns hard in Pennsylvania. Concurrently, consumer prices rise modestly, affecting economic forecasts.

In a move that has caught many by surprise, Republican former President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he will not participate in a debated scheduled by Fox News with Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. The invitation had proposed a second face-off in late October, with Trump firm in his decision against further debate engagements before the November election.

As the presidential race continues to heat up, Trump has turned his attention towards wooing American voters abroad with promises of tax relief. The former president aims to tighten his competition with Kamala Harris by potentially lowering taxes on U.S. citizens living overseas, a strategy he believes could sway a tight race.

Economic indicators reveal slow but steady movement with U.S. consumer prices rising slightly above expectations for September. The annual inflation, however, shows the smallest increase in over three years. This is a factor expected to influence the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates in the upcoming month.

(With inputs from agencies.)