"Analyzing the 2nd GOP Presidential Debate: DeSantis, Challengers, and Trump"

Seven Republican candidates will participate in the second GOP presidential debate, with the central question being whether any of them can emerge as a credible alternative to former President Donald Trump. The candidates will face a key divide between those running to be Trump's opponent and those running with an eye to be his running mate. Former Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie have been openly critical of Trump, while Sen. Tim Scott and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy have left themselves open to being picked as a running mate. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is also seen as a potential contender. Early state polls show Trump with a wide lead, but Haley is rising in popularity and could potentially replace DeSantis in second place. The debate will be televised on Fox News and Fox Business.