As the political season heats up, the Republican National Committee (RNC) gears up for the third GOP presidential primary debate on Wednesday evening in Miami, Florida. The stage will welcome Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
The selection criteria, anchored on polling and fundraising thresholds, have shaped a diverse lineup. RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel expressed enthusiasm about the debate’s historic partnership with the Republican Jewish Coalition, emphasizing the GOP’s commitment to Israel and the Jewish community.
🚨Daily reminder: President Donald J. Trump will hold a massive rally in Florida on the same night as the third GOP debate. 🥳🥳🥳@JasonMillerinDC stated on @LauraLoomer's show that there will be many "MAGA STARS" present, So you don't want to miss this Rally. 🍿🍿🍿 pic.twitter.com/3qysWPv6xL
— Freedom 🇺🇸🦅 (@PU28453638) October 29, 2023
While these candidates prepare for another contentious meeting, President Donald Trump continues to chart a different course as the faraway frontrunner in the primary race. Trump’s decision to sidestep the debate in favor of a rally in Hialeah, Florida, signals a tactical move to strengthen his rapport with the Latino community — a demographic pivotal to the 2024 election.
Hialeah stands as a testament to the GOP’s inroads with Latino voters. A predominantly Hispanic city, its residents recall better economic times during Trump’s tenure. Trump’s engagement with the Latino community is not merely a campaign strategy but an ongoing cultivation that has seen a significant shift to the right in voter allegiance in Miami-Dade County since 2016.
The upcoming rally is more than a simple counter-programming to the debate. It’s a strategic embrace of a community that has shown increasing support for Trump’s policies. The move symbolizes a candidate who understands the importance of being seen and heard directly by the voters. Trump’s ability to rally support in historically blue areas like Miami-Dade County speaks to his enduring appeal among segments of the electorate that value economic stability and a solid national presence.
This is a new CBS Poll: Trump is crushing Biden nationwide and with independents.
For the sake of the nation, and the safety of the world, it’s time for the GOP to unite behind President Trump.
No more primary debates, no more excuses, let’s move forward united behind the… https://t.co/0ravKUlVWu
— Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) November 5, 2023
Republican leaders like Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders have thrown their support behind Trump, championing a return to the “normal policies” of his administration as an antidote to the current administration’s approach, which they describe as erratic. This sentiment echoes among Latino business owners and professionals in Hialeah who prefer Trump’s experience and avoidance of international conflicts.
Polls continue to favor Trump, showcasing his dominant position among Latino voters in Florida, a crucial battleground state. His endorsements from prominent Sunshine State figures like Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) reinforce his frontrunner status, even as the primary season unfolds.
In an ever-evolving political landscape, Trump’s strategic decisions highlight his enduring influence and a savvy understanding of the electorate’s pulse. As the RNC debate unfolds, all eyes will be on Hialeah, where Trump’s rally may overshadow the policy discussions happening on stage, showcasing his unique ability to command the political spotlight.
