"DeSantis' Allies Pin Hopes on Make-or-Break Debate for Campaign Revival"
Allies of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are viewing the upcoming Republican primary debate as a critical moment for his struggling presidential campaign. DeSantis recently underwent a campaign reset, including a new campaign manager and layoffs, in an effort to boost his poll numbers. While former President Trump is leading the GOP primary field, DeSantis's allies expect him to face attacks from other candidates vying for second place. DeSantis has been preparing for the debate with a veteran debate coach and has signed the Republican National Committee's loyalty pledge. The campaign sees the debate as a win-win situation, regardless of whether Trump attends, but Trump has suggested he may not participate.