Republican Debate: Who Were the Winners and Losers?

The Republican debate on Thursday night was a heated affair, with the candidates trading barbs on a variety of issues. But who were the winners and losers? Winners:

Mike Pence: The vice president came out swinging, attacking President Biden on everything from inflation to the withdrawal from Afghanistan. He also defended his record on the economy and border security. Pence's performance was well-received by Republican voters, and he is now seen as a more viable contender for the presidency.

Ted Cruz: The Texas senator was also on fire, taking aim at Biden's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economy. Cruz also made a strong case for his own conservative credentials. His performance was well-received by the conservative base, and he could emerge as a dark horse candidate for the nomination.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

Donald Trump: The former president was a no-show at the debate, but his presence was still felt. The other candidates spent much of the night attacking him, and his absence only served to highlight his continued hold on the Republican Party.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

Chris Christie: The New Jersey governor had a rough night, struggling to defend his record and his attacks on Trump. He also made a number of gaffes, which did not help his cause. Christie is now seen as a longshot for the nomination.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

Nikki Haley: The former South Carolina governor also had a tough night. She was criticized for her lack of charisma and her inability to connect with voters. Haley is now seen as a fringe candidate for the nomination.

Ron DeSantis: The Florida governor was the breakout star of the debate, delivering a series of sharp attacks on Biden and the Democrats. DeSantis also showed off his charisma and his ability to connect with voters. He is now seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential contender for the presidency in 2024.

The Bottom Line: The Republican debate was a mixed bag for the candidates. Some, like Pence and Cruz, emerged with strong performances that could boost their chances of winning the nomination. Others, like Trump and Christie, had a rough night and could see their chances fade. The race for the Republican nomination is still wide open, and the next few debates will be crucial in shaping the field.