Republican Presidential Candidates Clash in Florida Ahead of Crucial Debate

Strategic Insights -

Florida will play a significant role in the Republican presidential primary, with the second debate taking place in the state and early voting expected to occur shortly. The Republican contenders are clashing over key issues, including Social Security reform, the ongoing controversy over Palestinian statehood, and immigration and border security.

Texas Governor Rick Perry and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney are engaged in a heated battle over Social Security, with Perry criticizing Romney's "liberal" stance on the issue. Romney, who has seen his lead in national polls slip to second place, has questioned Perry's ability to govern and has released a list of questions he says Perry should answer about Social Security.

The Republican candidates will also face questions on immigration and border security, as well as their stance on Palestinian statehood. Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota is expected to bounce back after her recent challenge to Perry over his support for an HPV vaccine, while other candidates, including Rep. Ron Paul of Texas and businessman Herman Cain, will aim to score points against the front-runners.

The Sunshine State has long been a crucial battleground state in the general election, and its influence will extend to the primary election process, with a crucial "Presidency 5" straw poll anticipated. Only the strongest candidates will remain by the time the Florida primary rolls around, and the battle for the Republican nomination will likely be decided in part by the results of this debate.

Key Takeaways:

  • Texas Governor Rick Perry and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney are engaged in a heated battle over Social Security reform, with Perry criticizing Romney's stance as "liberal."
  • The Republican contenders will face questions on the ongoing controversy over Palestinian statehood, immigration and border security, and their stance on these issues.
  • Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota is expected to bounce back after her recent challenge to Perry over his support for an HPV vaccine.
  • Palestine's bid for statehood at the United Nations and its implications for Republican candidates will be a key focus of the debate.
  • The "Presidency 5" straw poll will be a crucial indicator of the front-runner's status and the Republican candidate's electability.

Statistics:

  • A Quinnipiac University poll released Thursday morning showed Perry slightly ahead of Romney in Florida, with 28% of polled Republicans and independents supporting Perry, and 22% backing Romney.
  • Obama's approval rating in Florida stood at an all-time low in the survey, with 57% of voters disapproving of his performance.
  • A 53%-41% margin of Florida voters polled say that Obama doesn't deserve a second term as president, with Romney leading the president in a hypothetical general election 47%-40%, and Obama holding a 44%-42% margin over Perry.

Sources:

  • CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser
  • Quinnipiac University survey