Combative Tone Expected in 2nd Republican Debate

Trump, who dominated the first main Republican debate in Ohio last month, on Monday dismissed possible attacks from rivals this time around.

Instead, he only got stronger. Here’s the latest in the presidential campaign.

Wednesday night could be an opportunity for Carly Fiorina, who fought her way onto the main stage and seems ready to take on Trump.

Nearly 25 million people tuned into the first Republican presidential debate nearly two months ago, according to Fox News, the host of the event. Eleven GOP candidates will square off while four lower polling candidates will appear at an earlier debate. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush has taken on Trump. Bush is expected to continue exhibiting a more assertive persona and more actively challenging Trump during the debate.

“We hear that Jeb’s really working hard to show that he is dynamic and full of energy”, Hafner said. Other GOP candidates will gather at 5 p.m for a forum.

Walker was once a favorite to win the leadoff Iowa caucuses, but his standing has plummeted after an unremarkable first debate and a series of other missteps. “I am with the veterans one-hundred percent”, he vowed.

Even if candidates follow through on their pledges to be more aggressive, there are warning signs about that approach. He’ll do that, in part, by taking on Trump directly after spending much of the summer ignoring his presence. And with voters increasingly drawn to anti-establishment candidates, it’s unclear whether attacks from those with long political resumes will be effective.When it comes to delivering the artful jab or the flawless punch, many candidates would be well served by looking to debates past.

Sean Spicer, communications director and chief strategist of the Republican National Committee, told KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO he expects a slightly different experience than the previous debate.

After a man called her “beautiful” during a question-and-answer session at a picnic in Chichester, the former Hewlett-Packard CEO said she appreciates her supporters’ gallantry, but it’s unnecessary.

Adding to the confusion: Trump’s meteoric rise has come not after a slew of pricey, well-crafted advertisements, but rather from intense media coverage of his every move, which costs him nothing. Carson spent last weekend in Washington, D.C. prepping for the debate, going over issues his campaign is sure he will be quizzed on, particularly foreign policy and Planned Parenthood. But with neurosurgeon Carson rising quickly behind Trump, the pressure is on. In addition to the one-third of Republicans who want Trump to be the nominee, 14% of Republicans say he is their second choice; 17% describe Carson that way.

They’ll be joined by Kentucky Sen. The first debate for second-tier candidates begins at 6p.m. EDT.

Trump could end up longing for Megyn Kelly before the night is over.