Defense talks at the Republican debate sideline wokeness, Afghanistan, and veterans.
Sparks Fly as Republican Candidates Debate National Security
Wednesday night’s debate among the eight Republican presidential candidates was filled with intense discussions on various topics. While the focus on Ukraine sparked heated exchanges, there was a noticeable absence of conversations about other crucial military issues.
Key Takeaways from the Debate
According to John Byrnes, the deputy director of Concerned Veterans for America, the debate showcased significant differences in foreign policy and defense. However, he expressed disappointment that there was not enough emphasis on veterans’ healthcare and support.
Representatives from No One Left Behind, an organization dedicated to helping interpreters and employees in Iraq and Afghanistan, also voiced their disappointment. Andrew Sullivan, the group’s director of advocacy, highlighted the missed opportunity to address the 150,000 Special Immigrant Visa applicants left behind in Afghanistan.
The debate also touched on the Republican Party’s criticism of the Biden Pentagon’s focus on diversity and inclusion. While some candidates condemned this emphasis, others argued that it enhances military readiness.
Standout Moments
During the debate, Governor Ron DeSantis and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy expressed their reluctance to increase aid to Ukraine. Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley accused Ramaswamy of being inexperienced in foreign policy and supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom she referred to as a “murderer.” Former Governor Chris Christie and former Vice President Mike Pence defended their recent visits to Kyiv, where they met with President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CPP) was briefly discussed by several candidates. They highlighted U.S. reliance on Chinese energy and the production and distribution of fentanyl.
One standout candidate, Governor Doug Burgum, emphasized the need to deter China, describing it as the most pressing issue. He criticized the Biden administration’s approach and highlighted China’s energy and food security challenges.
Burgum, who participated in the debate despite tearing his Achilles tendon, was the only candidate to refer to the U.S.-China relationship as a “cold war.”
Overall, the debate provided a glimpse into the Republican candidates’ perspectives on national security, with sparks flying and important issues being discussed.
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