COVID-19 Dominates Republican Debate Stage as Candidates Shrink

The fourth Republican presidential debate may see a shift in focus towards the COVID-19 pandemic, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis potentially contrasting his handling of the crisis with that of other candidates. DeSantis, who gained national prominence for his hands-off approach to the pandemic, has been criticized by former President Donald Trump for issuing lockdown orders. Meanwhile, former Ambassador Nikki Haley has questioned the use of COVID relief funds and called for accountability from China. Biotech mogul Vivek Ramaswamy may discuss his regret over getting vaccinated, while former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who claims Trump gave him the virus, has argued for lifting lockdown restrictions for economic reasons.