Five big takeaways from 4th GOP debate
debate in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, intensified the question of who can best challenge Donald Trump for the Republican nomination in 2024. Nikki Haley, endorsed by a major conservative activist network, faced criticism from opponents like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.
DeSantis, previously seen as a strong challenger, defended his position, emphasizing voters' decisions over polls. The debate, marked by bitter squabbling, delved into Trump's fitness for office, the economy, and the U.S. role in global conflicts, providing candidates a platform before the Iowa caucuses.
Here are the five big takeaways from Wednesday’s debate.
Haley counters DeSantis, Ramaswamy
Hours before the debate, the Haley campaign asserted her growing popularity, framing the race as «between one man and one woman.» During the dialogue, DeSantis disputed this, highlighting his conservative achievements in Florida and accusing Haley of capitulating to the left and media pressure.
Ramaswamy continued his criticism, labeling Haley as «corrupt» and a «fascist neocon» who exploits her gender. Haley focused on her Tea Party roots, anti-abortion stance, advocacy for parents' rights, and accused DeSantis of spreading falsehoods about her record, expressing gratitude for the attention.
Throwing insults
During the two-hour debate, GOP contenders engaged in a series of insults targeting each other's intelligence, weight, and backgrounds. A particularly acrimonious exchange unfolded between Christie and Ramaswamy.
Christie accused Ramaswamy of not defending his past statements, and as the confrontation escalated, Christie labeled Ramaswamy as the «most obnoxious
