Summary:
- New polling reflects the aftermath of the GOP debate, highlighting both successful and struggling candidates.
- DeSantis sees a boost in support, potentially closing the gap between him and front runner President Trump.
- Not all candidates benefited; Tim Scott and Vivec Ramaswamy faced setbacks in poll numbers.
- The former president maintains his lead despite legal challenges, raising questions about his candidacy's future.
- Republican candidates hit the campaign trail, aiming to connect directly with voters post-debate.
GOP candidates are fanning out across the country trying to capitalize on their debate performance and voters are weighing in as well. New polling shows who made the most of their night in Milwaukee and who has more work to do. Fox News correspondent Kevin Cork has more from Washington.
The Nikki Vivec Moment
One of the standout moments from the GOP debate was the fiery exchange involving Nikki Vivec on the day after the election. A brand new poll conducted the following day sheds light on how candidates performed. The voters' desire for stability, consistency, and dependability contrasts with the chaos witnessed on the stage.Shift in Front Runner's Standing
Data from public opinion strategies, a polling firm working for the DeSantis campaign, reveals interesting trends. The gap between the front runner, President Trump, and Florida Governor DeSantis might be narrowing among Iowa voters.DeSantis' support increased from 14% to 21% post-debate. Notably, the poll indicated that Trump's support was in the low 60s, while no other candidate came close to those numbers.
Mixed Results for Candidates
However, not all candidates experienced positive changes in their poll numbers. Tim Scott's numbers dipped by 1%, and businessman Vivec Ramaswamy faced a significant drop. Ramaswamy expressed confidence in his ability to secure a resounding election victory.Former President's Influence
Despite facing four criminal indictments, the former president maintains his lead in the race. His campaign is leveraging his historic mug shot for fundraising purposes. Questions arise about the implications of his legal challenges on his candidacy and the uncertainty around his potential conviction.On the Campaign Trail
With the debate concluded, Republican candidates are now taking their messages directly to the public. They are embarking on campaigns that aim to resonate with the voters they encountered on the debate stage. The post-debate momentum is propelling them into an active phase of engagement.In the wake of the GOP debate, candidates are reflecting on their performances and strategizing to secure their positions. The aftermath of this event will likely have a lasting impact on the trajectory of the Republican primary race. Kevin Cork, reporting for Fox News from Washington.