Trump's Absence At GOP Debate Leaves Chris Christie Hanging: NYT

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is left hanging as ex-president Donald Trump opts to skip the upcoming GOP debate, New York Times reported.

Christie had been hoping for a dramatic onstage confrontation with Trump, but it seems he will be left disappointed. He has spent months taunting Trump, building his presidential candidacy around a potential clash with the former president. However, Trump appears to be avoiding the debate, choosing instead to sit for an interview with Tucker Carlson, to be broadcasted online concurrently with the debate.

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The absence of Trump could result in an anticlimactic debate, with Christie left to launch unreciprocated attacks. However, some believe that this could also present an opportunity for Christie, allowing him to shine in the vacuum and use other candidates as stand-ins for Trump.

Despite the lack of a showdown with Trump, Christie remains confident. He suggests that Trump’s absence indicates his fear to defend his record on the same stage and gives Christie more time to deliver his message. The upcoming debate will reveal whether Christie’s strategy pays off.

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Chris Christie Photo by Bryan Littel on Shutterstock