In the second debate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute in Simi Valley, California, the absence of former President Donald Trump cast a long shadow over the event. Despite Trump’s lead in the crowded field, he chose not to participate in either of the Republican debates thus far.
Seven candidates met the stricter qualifying rules set by the Republican National Committee: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum. Trump, however, was notably absent as he addressed a crowd in Michigan during the debate.
Throughout the evening, Republican candidates not only emphasized their party’s priorities and criticized President Biden but also directed their criticisms towards Trump.
Chris Christie took a direct shot at Trump, accusing him of avoiding the debate out of fear, humorously suggesting a new nickname for him: “Donald Duck.” He pointedly remarked, “You’re ducking these things, and let me tell you what’s going to happen. You keep doing that, and no one up here is going to call you Donald Trump anymore. We’re going to call you Donald Duck.”
Ron DeSantis also criticized Trump’s absence, asserting that Trump should have been on the stage to defend his record, particularly regarding the national debt and inflation.
DeSantis also criticized Trump’s recent comments on pro-life issues, rejecting the notion that pro-lifers were responsible for midterm defeats. Christie used this moment to pivot to addressing the fentanyl overdose epidemic and advocating for more focused government efforts in tackling the crisis.
Meanwhile, Vivek Ramaswamy, the youngest candidate in the GOP primary race, highlighted his efforts to engage with younger Americans, mentioning his decision to join TikTok, a platform popular among Gen Z and Millennials. He stressed the importance of reaching the next generation and standing out in a party that traditionally struggles to connect with younger voters.
As millennial and Gen Z voters grow as a portion of the electorate, Ramaswamy also supports raising the voting age to 25, a controversial policy proposal. Several candidates expressed the desire for schools to notify parents if their child changes their gender identity, a topic that remains contentious within the Republican Party.
The debate also addressed the issue of violence targeting LGBTQ Americans, with Pence expressing support for “parental rights” laws. However, he did not directly address measures to combat LGBTQ violence.
The candidates discussed the scourge of mass shootings in America, with Pence proposing expedited criminal penalties for mass shooters if elected, aiming for faster justice for victims’ families.
On the topic of illegal immigration, Ramaswamy called for ending birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to parents in the country illegally. He argued that it was a constitutional violation and cited the example of children of diplomats who do not receive citizenship due to diplomatic immunity.
During the debate, candidates raised concerns about Ramaswamy’s business ties in China, with accusations of connections to the Chinese Communist Party. Pence expressed approval for Ramaswamy’s withdrawal from business ties with China in 2018.
Donald Trump, who arrived in Michigan during the debate, largely focused on his lead in the polls and ridiculed his Republican rivals, suggesting they were competing for positions in his future administration, signaling his focus on the general election and the challenge posed by President Biden.
In conclusion, the second 2024 Republican presidential debate showcased a crowded field of candidates, with Trump’s absence generating significant discussion and criticism. The candidates addressed key issues within the Republican Party, from pro-life stances to immigration policy, and made their case for the nomination as they set their sights on the upcoming presidential election.