What Happened At The First 2024 Republican Primary Debate
Aug 24, 2023
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Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and former vice president Mike Pence take much of the focus at the first 2024 Republican primary debate. Topics discussed include candidate support for Donald Trump despite potential convictions, differing views on abortion rights, diverging positions on U.S. foreign policy, highlights of the debate regarding climate change, and analysis of candidate performances.
Candidates pledged support for Trump even if he faces criminal charges, except for Christie and Hutchinson.
The debate highlighted divisions within the Republican Party on abortion, Ukraine policy, and climate change.
Deep dives
Trump's Absence at GOP Presidential Debate
The first GOP presidential debate for the 2024 campaign season took place without Donald Trump, the front runner. His absence was felt throughout the debate, with boos directed at Trump critics on stage and discussions around his political strength. There were moments when Trump's presence was missed, as he could have defended himself against certain criticisms. However, his absence may not have significant political consequences, considering his substantial lead in the polls.
Abortion Debates and Nikki Haley's Position
During the debate, differences in opinions on abortion were highlighted, with some candidates advocating for a federal ban while others argued it should be a state issue. Nikki Haley stood out by emphasizing the need to find consensus and stop demonizing the issue. She expressed the importance of putting the decision in the hands of the American people rather than unelected justices. However, her position did not find widespread support on the stage, as many candidates maintained a stronger conservative stance on abortion rights.
The Divide on Ukraine Policy and Climate Change
The debate also touched upon Ukraine policy and climate change. Vivek Ramaswami stated that America should end its support for Ukraine, a view uncommon among the candidates. This issue revealed a divide within the Republican Party. While some candidates upheld the traditional GOP stance of peace through strength, others, including Ron DeSantis, expressed caution about US involvement in Ukraine, highlighting the topic's divisive nature. Additionally, the debate briefly addressed climate change, underscoring the divergent opinions within the party. Candidates avoided specific answers about man-made climate change, demonstrating a lack of seriousness on policy solutions.
All the candidates except former New Jersey governor Chris Christie and former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson said they would support Donald Trump if he secures the nomination — even if he is criminally convicted on any of the charges he is facing.
Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and former vice president Mike Pence held much of the focus during the debate.
This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, national political correspondent Sarah McCammon, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.
The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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