During Wednesday's first debate for the 2024 U.S. Republican presidential nomination, candidates aimed to shift attention away from non-participating former President Donald Trump. Nevertheless, much of the spotlight remained on political newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy.
Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have been prominent figures in the Republican presidential nomination race this year.
However, their dominance didn't extend to the debate stage on Wednesday night.
Trump chose to skip the GOP's initial presidential primary debate due to his strong lead in the polls. Instead, he opted for an interview with recently fired Fox News host Tucker Carlson.
Meanwhile, during much of the event, DeSantis attended the debate but was overshadowed by a Bitcoin-friendly entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis went into the debate with significant potential gains and losses.
Initially considered the leading GOP contender against a second Trump presidency, DeSantis fell far behind the former president in most polls due to campaign changes and financial difficulties.
Amidst the intense debate, Vivek Ramaswamy stood on stage, a 38-year-old tech entrepreneur and unexpected contender.
Despite being a newcomer and trailing Trump, he has gained ground in recent polls, earning a spot beside DeSantis at the forefront.
Demonstrating his adeptness for video and staying on point, Ramaswamy spoke about his humble beginnings, emphasizing how his immigrant parents' sacrifices enabled him to establish billion-dollar enterprises.
Initially considered the leading GOP contender against a second Trump presidency, DeSantis fell far behind the former president in most polls due to campaign changes and financial difficulties.
Amidst the intense debate, Vivek Ramaswamy stood on stage, a 38-year-old tech entrepreneur and unexpected contender.
Despite being a newcomer and trailing Trump, he has gained ground in recent polls, earning a spot beside DeSantis at the forefront.
Demonstrating his adeptness for video and staying on point, Ramaswamy spoke about his humble beginnings, emphasizing how his immigrant parents' sacrifices enabled him to establish billion-dollar enterprises.