8 Moments That Stood Out From the Second GOP 2024 Presidential Debate
The second Republican presidential debate of the 2024 cycle was a lively affair, with the seven candidates on stage sparring on a range of issues, from the economy to foreign policy to social issues. Here are eight moments that stood out:
DeSantis takes early swing at Trump.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seen as one of Trump’s main rivals for the nomination, took an early swing at the former president in the debate. “And you know who is missing in action? Donald Trump is missing in action,” DeSantis said, blasting the former president for not attending the debate.
Haley and Scott square off.
Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina also clashed in the debate, with Haley criticizing Scott for his support of the bipartisan infrastructure bill and Scott defending his vote. “I’m not ashamed of anything I’ve voted on,” Scott said.
Pence distances himself from Trump.
Former Vice President Mike Pence also distanced himself from Trump in the debate, saying that he would not support Trump if he were to run for president again in 2024. “I don’t think it’s in the best interests of the country,” Pence said.
Ramaswamy emerges as a surprise star.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a businessman who has never held elected office, emerged as a surprise star of the debate. Ramaswamy delivered a series of well-crafted speeches and lines that impressed many viewers.
Burgum tries to break through.
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum also tried to break through in the debate, but he had difficulty getting speaking time. Burgum did manage to get in a few memorable lines, including one where he said that the United States is “not a democracy, it’s a republic.”
Christie goes after Trump.
Chris Christie, the former governor of New Jersey, also went after Trump in the debate. Christie accused Trump of being a “coward” for not attending the debate and said that Trump deserves a new nickname: “Donald Duck.”
Scott criticizes Biden on the economy.
Scott criticized President Biden on the economy, saying that Biden’s policies are leading to a recession. “Joe Biden is the worst president in American history,” Scott said.
Pence defends his record on immigration.
Pence defended his record on immigration, saying that he helped to secure the southern border and that he would continue to do so if he were elected president. “We need to build the wall,” Pence said.
The second GOP presidential debate was a lively and informative event, and it gave viewers a better sense of the policy positions of the seven candidates on stage. It remains to be seen who will emerge as the frontrunner in the GOP race, but the debate provided some valuable insights into the field.