Republican presidential candidate businessman Donald Trump speaks during the CNN Republican presidential debate
Front-running Donald Trump began the second Republican presidential debate with a bang, throwing barbs in all directions, but was quiet for long stretches as 10 fellow candidates for the 2016 presidential nomination bore down on serious issues.
Standing at center stage, Trump declared that he had a “phenomenal temperament” and a record in business that would help him on the world stage. The billionaire businessman’s temperament was again up for discussion during Wednesday night’s (yesterday, Macau time) marathon debate. Trump has made a series of incendiary comments about women and Hispanic immigrants and remains a long-shot candidate for the White House.
Trump’s unexpected rise and surprising durability is seen as a reflection of voters’ frustration with Washington and career politicians. He drew a heavy challenge from another Washington outsider with a business background: former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, the only Republican woman in the race.
Fiorina earned praise for her debut performance in the party’s main debate, commanding the three-hour event’s first half — when the television audience was likely the most engaged. Trump has become increasingly critical of Fiorina as her standing has risen.
Fiorina drew the night’s first loud ovation when asked about Trump’s earlier denigration of her looks, which he later denied was a reference to her appearance.
“I think women all over this country heard very clearly what Mr. Trump said,” Fiorina said.
Trump retorted: “She’s got a beautiful face, and she’s a beautiful woman.”
Trump’s climb to the top of the field has unnerved Republican leaders who fear the former reality TV star is damaging the party’s brand and imperiling its chances of winning back the White House after President Barack Obama’s eight-year tenure ends. Trump has so far been immune to criticism for his lack of specific policy proposals, his caustic rhetoric and his uneven support of conservative principles. AP
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