Preliminary opinions from Republican viewers of the first RNC debate suggest unexpected standout performances from under-the-radar candidates.
It was another disappointing night for team DeSantis as the Florida governor failed to stand out during the debate. While he avoided the onslaught of attacks directed toward younger candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, he didn’t leave any significant impression on viewers overall.
But two candidates kept viewers talking after the debate was over thanks to decisive moments on air.
Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley
A notable standout due to her lackluster polling thus far, Haley mounted a headfirst attack on the Republican party as a whole.
She lambasted several of her opponents directly, singling out DeSantis, Senator Tim Scott, and former Vice President Mike Pence for voting on legislation that raised the national debt.
“Our kids are never going to forgive us for this,” said Haley, who served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations in the Trump administration.
She then called out Republicans for adding exorbitant earmarks to the 2024 budget, noting they requested $7.4 billion in earmarks compared to Democrats’ $2.8 billion in requests.
“You tell me, who are the big spenders?” Haley said. “I think it’s time for an accountant in the White House,” she followed, referring to her own accounting degree and professional work history as a chief financial officer.
“Haley has cast herself as the reasonable responsible adult in the room,” said one viewer who commented anonymously.
“My favorites tonight were Haley, Scott, and Burgum. Good answers and were by far the most reasonable people,” said another.
South Carolina Senator Tim Scott
A fellow South Carolinian, Scott also earned positive early reviews from viewers.
While he didn’t have any bombastic moments, the answers he gave resonated with those looking for a level-headed candidate.
“Scott is a classical conservative, small government, low taxes guy. He’s solid. I’ll take it,” a viewer concluded.
“He has a record in South Carolina that checks out,” said another in response to questions about Scott’s authenticity.
Official polling will be conducted today that will give more insight into the voters feelings on the first debate. We welcome our readers to sound off in the comments with their own takes!
How did DeSantis contribute to higher government spending? He hasn’t been in Congress. Haley misspoke and you should have caught it
Oops, he was in Congress.
I say Scott, Ron, WON
Dont trust Vivek
Next debate drop: Pence, Haley, Christie, Asa
Scott lost my interest with his stupid comment about first thing he would do is fire the AG. Duh…..new administration always picks their own people to fill such positions. No need for show boat comment about “firing”.
Haley screeching shows her lack of debate skills let alone even a consideration for President. President Trump won the night, all the little cowboys and indians on stage pale in any comparison to his strong record of success in low inflation, low energy prices, low interest rates, high employment and strong border policies. Joe Bribem is ruining our country, destroyed our border and sovereignty and his Green/Marxist Agenda has cost the average American over $10,000 more in costs due to high accumulation of inflation. President Trump for President 2024!🇺🇸
Nikki Haley won the debate. She called out the Republicans, was confident, and well versed. She did her homework. I loved her answers.
A NO vote for viveck! He lost me when he said he wants to stop funding to Israel! Shows he is an anti- Semite, which we don’t need in our White House! I am TRUMP all the way, he has a proven track record, the rest of the field are wanna be’s who would be lousy choices.