What to expect from fourth GOP debate featuring DeSantis, Haley, Ramaswamy, Christie

Four Republican contenders — Nikki Haley, Vivek Ramaswamy, Ron DeSantis, and Chris Christie — are set to engage in the fourth GOP debate in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. 

The Republican National Committee has confirmed the participants, with the notable absence of former President Donald Trump, who continues to opt out despite meeting debate and fundraising criteria.

Scheduled for 8 pm ET at the University of Alabama, the debate will be moderated by Megyn Kelly, Elizabeth Vargas, and Eliana Johnson. Broadcasting on NewsNation and The CW, as well as online via Rumble, the platform caters to a primarily right-wing audience.

Candidates had to meet stringent criteria set by the RNC, surpassing polling and donor thresholds. Notable participants include:

Governor Ron DeSantis: Shifting campaign focuses to immigration and inflation, facing Trump attack ads.

Former Governor Nikki Haley: Climbing in polls, challenging Trump, and emphasizing ties between U.S. funding for Ukraine and Israel.

Vivek Ramaswamy: Youngest GOP candidate utilising social media, opposing ESG movement and "woke"-ism.

Governor Chris Christie: Positioning as a conservative alternative, visiting Israel after the Hamas attack, and distancing from Trump post-Jan. 6.

Trump, currently the front-runner, has chosen not to attend, opting for an end-of-year reception in Hallandale Beach, Florida, to raise funds for the MAGA Inc political action committee. 

Despite Trump's absence, the debate promises insights into the strategies and positions of key Republican figures as the 2024 presidential race gains momentum.