Politics
Daughter drama: Ramaswamy blasts Haley over TikTok hypocrisy at debate
By Jake Beardslee · November 9, 2023
In brief…
- Republican presidential candidates debated key issues like abortion, foreign policy, and the legacy of former President Trump at a debate in Miami.
- Frontrunners Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis traded barbs over their records on China.
- The debate highlighted divisions within the GOP over Ukraine.
Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis traded sharp attacks over their records on China, while other Republican presidential hopefuls took aim at Donald Trump’s legacy, at a contentious GOP primary debate in Miami. Haley, who has gained momentum after strong debate performances, faced criticism from rivals including biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who sparked an explosive exchange by referencing Haley’s daughter’s past social media use.
“Leave my daughter out of your voice,” Haley fired back at Ramaswamy, calling him “scum” as some audience members booed him, Fox News Digital reported.
The candidates also targeted former President Trump, who was holding a rally nearby at the same time. “Trump should explain why he didn’t have Mexico pay for the border wall, why he racked up so much debt, and why he didn’t drain the swamp,” DeSantis emphasized. Haley noted Trump’s spending contributed significantly to the ballooning national debt. Chris Christie argued Trump’s myriad legal issues prevent him from being able to effectively lead the party going forward.
DeSantis and Haley, considered Trump’s two leading rivals, traded blows over their stances toward China while serving as governors. DeSantis argued the war in Ukraine needs to end soon so America can refocus attention on challenging China and securing the southern border. Haley contended Trump has gone weak on Russia as the conflict drags on.
Haley and Senator Tim Scott, who hail from the same state of South Carolina, squabbled over the feasibility of passing a federal 15-week abortion ban if Republicans take back the White House.
While Ramaswamy’s fiery attacks on Haley grabbed headlines, political observers noted substantive policy differences emerged during the broader debate that highlighted lingering rifts within the GOP. Heading into 2024, divisions remain over foreign policy priorities, social issues, and how to position the party relative to Trump’s controversial tenure.