After weeks of intense competition for second place, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis will finally confront each other in-person during the third primary debate in Miami next week. The key topics of contention will likely revolve around the Israel-Hamas war, Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, and China’s growing global influence.
Both candidates have been preparing their attack strategies and seeking to position themselves as the best alternative to former President Donald Trump. DeSantis has criticized Haley for her alleged desire to cozy up to China while serving as governor, questioning her foreign policy credentials. In response, Haley has dismissed DeSantis’ claims as desperate attempts from a struggling campaign.
With time running out to catch up to Trump, both candidates have intensified their attacks on each other. The upcoming debate, hosted by NBC News, Salem Radio Network, and the Republican Jewish Coalition, will provide a crucial opportunity for them to make their case in front of a primetime audience before caucuses and primaries begin next year.
Foreign policy is expected to take center stage in the debate, which could work in Haley’s favor. She has built her campaign around the need for a strong US foreign policy, especially given the growing isolationist sentiment within the GOP. Haley’s strong performances in the previous debates have already generated momentum, leading to increased support and larger crowds.
However, DeSantis aims to portray Haley as out of touch with a party that has moved away from the neoconservatism of the Bush administration. He argues that his record is more aligned with the current Republican landscape, highlighting his restraint and focus on American interests over other countries’ borders.
Both candidates are aware of the urgency to make their case. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, who has campaigned alongside both DeSantis and Haley, emphasizes the importance of the upcoming Miami debate as a critical moment in the race. With fewer candidates on stage, they will have more time to present fresh ideas and perspectives.
In the lead-up to the debate, DeSantis and his supporters have targeted Haley’s foreign policy judgment. They have specifically criticized her for bringing Chinese investment to South Carolina during her time as governor, citing her recruitment of China Jushi, a fiberglass company. DeSantis signed a law earlier this year to restrict foreign countries, including China, from purchasing farmland and critical infrastructure in Florida.
On the other hand, Haley has faced scrutiny and questions regarding the deal with China on the campaign trail. She maintains that her intention was to bring jobs to the state and defend US interests, while acknowledging that the country now has a better understanding of China’s actions. Haley has positioned herself as tough on China, labeling it as an “enemy” and the greatest national security threat to America.
Apart from the China dispute, DeSantis has also criticized Haley’s alleged support for taking in refugees from Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict. The super PAC backing Haley has refuted this claim, emphasizing the importance of fact-checking in the current political climate.
Overall, the upcoming debate will serve as a crucial moment for Haley and DeSantis to present their policy positions and engage in a direct confrontation. It will be a battle to convince voters that they are the best candidate to challenge Trump and lead the Republican Party.
