Overview

• Republican rivals Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis are set to face off in a one-on-one debate, with both candidates aiming to position themselves as the primary alternative to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race.
• The debate is seen as a crucial opportunity for both candidates to change the trajectory of the race before the Iowa caucuses.
• Haley has been gaining ground in New Hampshire, with some polls showing her within striking distance of Trump, especially if support for anti-Trump candidate Chris Christie were to flow to her.
• DeSantis, who has practically lived in Iowa for months and moved his national campaign headquarters there, is eager to finish no worse than second in the Iowa caucuses.
• Despite a series of recent gaffes, Haley's campaign has come under fresh scrutiny from both her GOP rivals and President Joe Biden, indicating that she is seen as a rising contender.