Candidate Skips Debates and Remains Unharmed
The recent series of prime-time GOP debates have concluded, and it appears that the candidate who skipped out on all four debates emerged as the big winner. That candidate is former President Donald Trump, who, despite not participating, remains the commanding frontrunner in the GOP nomination race with the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary fast approaching.
Debates Did Not Change the Inevitable
Political strategists and veterans of numerous GOP presidential campaigns agree that the debates did not change the fact that Trump is likely to be the nominee and win both Iowa and New Hampshire by large margins. Despite facing multiple indictments for crimes related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, Trump’s support among Republican voters has only grown stronger.
Smallest Debate with Biggest Fireworks
The latest debate, held at the University of Alabama with only four candidates on the stage, delivered some of the most intense verbal clashes. While former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie repeatedly criticized his rivals for not confronting Trump, the former president emerged relatively unscathed.
Christie’s scolding of his rivals mostly fell on deaf ears, as they avoided direct criticism of Trump even when specifically asked about him. This reluctance to challenge Trump is evident among the major candidates, including former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who are vying for second place behind Trump.
Haley Rises in the Polls
Nikki Haley, who has performed well in previous debates, has seen a rise in her polling numbers in recent months. She has surpassed DeSantis in second place in New Hampshire and her home state, and is even competing with him in Iowa. Strategists believe that Haley has positioned herself to become the clear alternative to Trump.
Future of Debates in Question
While the impact of the debates on the top of the race has been minimal, there are questions about whether the Republican National Committee (RNC) will continue to host future debates. The RNC may choose to allow state parties to collaborate with media organizations for future events. A decision from the RNC is expected after Wednesday’s debate.