GOP Candidates DeSantis, Christie Make Bold Claims Against Trump Ahead of 2024 Election

While DeSantis accuses Trump of dodging public debates, questions his likelihood to show up and pledges to back him only if he wins nomination, Christie argues Trump's indictment could wreck GOP's 2024 chances and claims to be the only candidate strong enough to oppose him.

GOP Candidates DeSantis and Christie have made bold claims against Trump ahead of the 2024 election. DeSantis has accused Trump of dodging public debates and stated that he will only back him if he wins the nomination.
Christie claims that Trump's indictment could ruin GOP's chances in 2024 and believes he is the only candidate strong enough to oppose him. He also sees his role as warning the party about the dangers of supporting Trump who has been indicted four times.
In response to accusations of him avoiding debates, DeSantis challenged Trump to show up to the third GOP debate. His campaign also trolled Trump with merchandised golf balls to goad him into participating.
Both candidates have faced scrutiny from other Republican presidential candidates and the media. Suggestions that DeSantis is wearing footwear with heightened insoles to appear taller have circulated, while Haley has poked fun at his choice of boots.
Despite their criticisms of Trump, both DeSantis and Christie have pledged to support Trump if he becomes the GOP nominee for the 2024 election. This comes despite DeSantis's concern that a Trump conviction could be 'fatal' in a general election.