A CNN poll reveals a record-high majority of Americans believe the government should do more, yet trust in both major parties' ability to lead or get things done remains low, with significant skepticism about party effectiveness and a growing perception of important differences between Republicans and Democrats on key issues.
In the first televised debate for California's U.S. Senate race, Democratic candidates Schiff, Lee, and Porter emphasized their differences, with Schiff highlighting his confrontations with Trump, Lee sharing her progressive history, and Porter positioning herself as a corporate adversary. Republican candidate Steve Garvey, a political novice, struggled to articulate his positions on key issues like abortion and gun control. The debate highlighted policy disparities, such as earmarks and healthcare, but the race may ultimately be decided by style and financial resources in the heavily Democratic state.
Republican presidential contenders clashed sharply in a combative debate that was notable for the absence of front-runner Donald Trump. The candidates targeted each other in heated exchanges, seeking to differentiate themselves and emerge as the main alternative to Trump. While some criticized Trump on specific issues, most of the debate focused on personal characteristics and experience rather than policy. The candidates largely ignored Trump, except for one moment when they were asked if they would support him if he was convicted in a court of law. All candidates, except one, raised their hands. The debate marked the official start of the 2024 nomination battle and served as a pivotal moment for the candidates to establish their vision and introduce themselves to the primary electorate.
Florida Governor and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis criticized former President Donald Trump's name-calling, calling it "petty" and "juvenile." DeSantis said Trump's behavior is one of the reasons why he lost the 2020 presidential election. While DeSantis acknowledged that he and Trump have "substantive differences," he still thinks Trump "did a lot of great things." DeSantis is beginning to sharpen his attacks against Trump now that both men are officially running for president.