During the recent Republican 2024 presidential debate, rising star Vivek Ramaswamy was the center of attention and criticism from his party peers.
Nikki Haley, the former UN Ambassador, sharply commented that every interaction with Ramaswamy made her feel “incrementally less intelligent.” Other candidates repeatedly cut off his responses.
However, it wasn’t just Ramaswamy in the line of fire. Notably absent was Donald Trump, the current frontrunner, who chose to engage with auto workers in Michigan rather than attend the debate.
The chosen Republican candidate will compete against the anticipated Democratic nominee, President Joe Biden, in the upcoming elections.
The debate, broadcasted by Fox Business Network, showcased a slew of GOP hopefuls: Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, Ron DeSantis of Florida, ex-New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, previous Vice-President Mike Pence, Tim Scott of South Carolina, and Doug Burgum, the North Dakota Governor. Asa Hutchinson, ex-Arkansas Governor, was notably absent after failing to qualify for this round.
Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur turned politician, has enjoyed a surge in popularity since his appearance in the first debate. Yet, he encountered significant resistance, especially from Haley and Pence. They questioned his foreign policy strategies, specifically his past interactions with China. Pence mockingly commended Ramaswamy’s 2018 withdrawal from a Chinese deal, linking it to his recent involvement in politics.
Nevertheless, Ramaswamy remained confident and steadfast in his unique policy stances, including a controversial take on transgender issues and a proposal to ban social media for those under 16.
Doug Burgum made efforts to steer the discussion, positioning himself as the “business leader” the Republicans need, boasting about his achievements as North Dakota’s governor.
A recurring topic was the concern about immigration and the continuous influx of migrants and narcotics across the southern US border. Both DeSantis and Haley vocalized aggressive stances against Mexican drug cartels.
However, it was DeSantis who took a surprising jab at Trump. While he has previously treaded carefully around Trump, he boldly highlighted their differences, specifically regarding abortion. Christie, never one to hold back against Trump, taunted the absent frontrunner with the moniker “Donald Duck.”
While not attending the debate, Trump addressed his absence in a Michigan address. He scarcely mentioned his GOP rivals, insinuating they’d be vying for positions in his administration should he win. The former president’s remarks came in the wake of President Biden’s recent engagement with auto industry workers.
As the elections loom, a CBS News poll hinted at a tight race, with Trump narrowly leading Biden. The Republicans are gearing up for state-by-state contests starting January, culminating in the party convention in Milwaukee come July.
