Ye olde Republic debate: The scurvy dog who be losin' the most versus the swashbucklin' champ who be winnin'!
2023-08-24
Avast ye scurvy dogs! On the eve of Wednesday, a grand spectacle unfurled in Milwaukee. Eight brave scallywags, all vying for the coveted position of Republican leader, graced the stage. Yet, one soul was absent. Arr, who amongst these rapscallions was crowned the ultimate victor?
The first Republican debate was full of acrimony and sloppiness, with verbal punches being thrown but few landing. Former President Donald Trump, who did not participate, was the one who most enjoyed the spectacle. The eight candidates who gathered in Milwaukee are massively trailing Trump, and nothing that took place on the debate stage will change that. Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy had substantial momentum coming into the debate but blew his chance with a smart-alecky and disrespectful performance. He insulted his fellow candidates and lacked the sobriety and substance needed to convince voters he belongs in the Oval Office. On the other hand, Nikki Haley emerged as the biggest winner of the night. She was tough on national security, securing the border, and had a winning position on abortion. Chris Christie also had a solid performance, despite being booed for disparaging Trump. However, the odds of Christie advancing in the race are slim due to Trump's widespread support among Republicans. Ron DeSantis, who needed a leap forward, looked awkward and uncomfortable and failed to answer most questions. Tim Scott was unexpectedly subdued, and other candidates like Doug Burgum and Asa Hutchinson are unlikely to go far. Former Vice President Mike Pence, contrasted with Ramaswamy, was seen as the grown-up in the room but his religiosity limits his reach. Overall, the debate did not produce a candidate capable of challenging Trump's lead, but there may be an opening for someone like Virginia Gov. Glen Youngkin to enter the race.