The GOP Debate Olympics: The Vivek Show, the Nikki Smackdown, and the Great Ron Escape
Aug 24, 2023
auto_awesome
Tara Palmeri analyzes the GOP debates, discussing winners and losers, Vivek's dominance, and Mike Pence's powerful moment. The performances of DeSantis, Vivek, Nikki, and Tim Scott are analyzed. The importance of policy versus performance art is explored, and opinions from a cigar shop gathering in New Hampshire are shared. The Republican Party's stance on sensitive topics, notable performances, and impact on voters' opinions are discussed.
Vivek Rama Swami's outsider approach and slick delivery made him a winner of the debate.
Nikki Haley stood out with her strong and articulate presentation, particularly on foreign policy.
Deep dives
Vivek Rama Swami dominates the debate and captures attention
Vivek Rama Swami made a lasting impression on the audience in the cigar shop. His performance and ability to command attention were praised, even by those who were not familiar with him before. His outsider approach and slick delivery resonated with the group, and he was seen as a winner of the debate.
Nikki Haley surprises and impresses the audience
Nikki Haley's performance was a pleasant surprise to many in the cigar shop. She landed a punch against Vivek Rama Swami on foreign policy, presenting herself as a strong and articulate candidate. Her ability to speak truthfully and her adult presence stood out, and she was seen as a standout performer.
Mixed reviews for Ron DeSantis and Mike Pence
Ron DeSantis played it safe, but his lack of attack and overall stiffness left some underwhelmed in the cigar shop. Mike Pence's impassioned defense of the Constitution was acknowledged, but his overall performance did not fare well with the audience. Both candidates received mixed reviews and did not have the same impact as Rama Swami or Haley.
Tim Scott and Chris Christie fail to impress
Tim Scott's presentation as an adult in the room did not resonate with the audience, and he seemed uncomfortable on the stage. Chris Christie's performance fell short of expectations, as he failed to make compelling points and was outmatched by Rama Swami in their exchange. Both candidates left the audience unimpressed and did not stand out.
Tara is on the ground in Milwaukee, where she’s joined by Alex Thompson to pick the winners and losers from the first Republican debate. Then she speaks with Matthew Bartlett in New Hampshire for a deeper look at the Spin Zone.