The first primary debate of the 2024 US presidential election took place on August 23, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Eight Republican candidates participated in the debate, including former Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. However, the most notable absence was former President Donald Trump, who is widely considered to be the frontrunner for the Republican nomination.
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Trump had been invited to the debate, but he declined to participate, citing his busy schedule. He also said that he did not want to participate in a debate with "low-rated" candidates. Trump's absence was a major disappointment to many Republicans, who were eager to see him take on his rivals.
In his absence, Trump's name was still a major presence in the debate. The other candidates frequently mentioned him, and they often disagreed with his policies and positions. Pence, for example, said that he would not support Trump if he were the Republican nominee.
Despite Trump's absence, the debate was still a lively affair. The candidates sparred over a variety of issues, including the economy, immigration, and healthcare. They also exchanged barbs about their personal histories and qualifications.
The debate was not without its moments of controversy. At one point, Christie accused Haley of being a "carpetbagger" because she had moved to South Carolina after her husband was elected governor. Haley responded by calling Christie a "bully."
The debate ended with no clear winner. However, it did serve to introduce the Republican field to a wider audience and to highlight the divisions within the party.
It remains to be seen whether Trump will participate in future debates. However, his absence from the first debate did not prevent him from dominating the conversation. If he does decide to run for president again in 2024, he is likely to be the focus of attention throughout the campaign.
Here are some of the key takeaways from the debate:
- Trump's absence was a major disappointment to many Republicans, but it did not prevent him from dominating the conversation.
- The other candidates frequently mentioned Trump and disagreed with his policies and positions.
- The debate was a lively affair with the candidates sparring over a variety of issues.
- The debate ended with no clear winner, but it did serve to introduce the Republican field to a wider audience.
The 2024 US presidential election is still two years away, but the first primary debate has already set the stage for a competitive and divisive campaign.
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