GOP Debate Leaves Party No Closer to Knowing Its Likely Nominee

For many of the Republican presidential candidates who expected to be at or near the top of the polls now, finding a solid base of support has proven to be a daunting challenge.

From candidates such as former Florida governor Jeb Bush to Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Ohio Gov. John Kasich — all members of the governing establishment in the GOP and each twice elected statewide — the summertime success of Donald Trump has created unexpected obstacles.

Instead of moving forward, some of them have been going backward. That has left the GOP no closer to knowing who its 2016 nominee will be than it was when campaigning started many months ago. Instead the party is beset with questions.

Trump, who did not have a strong performance at the second Republican debate Wednesday in Simi Valley, has an obvious vulnerability. He must convince more voters that someone who is such a flamboyant entertainer and enamored with himself can serve effectively as president.

The candidates he has overshadowed remain hopeful that he will never pass that test with enough voters to make him the GOP nominee. But who among them is capable of winning enough hearts and minds to emerge as the eventual winner? (Read more from “GOP Debate Leaves Party No Closer to Knowing Its Likely Nominee” HERE)

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