The Nastiest GOP Debate

Politico: “The free-for-all unmasked the dynamics that have largely played out by press release or in one-off one-liners on the campaign trail. It’s a sign of the rising stakes in South Carolina, which could define the contours of the race over the next few months as a three-way contest among Trump, Cruz and an establishment-backed candidate like Rubio, Bush or Kasich. Ben Carson, a retired neurosurgeon who has trailed in polls, is also hoping the squabbling helps lift his soft-spoken brand, though he had few opportunities to stand out during the debate.”

“It’s unclear which blows hit their mark and who will emerge at the top of the battered heap of rivals. But each candidate urgently needed a strong showing.”