GOP Presidential Hopefuls Slam Donald Trump In Undercard Debate
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — In the first presidential debate of the 2016 campaign season, seven Republican presidential hopefuls who did not make the cut for Thursday night's main event took the stage in Cleveland, Ohio to explain their views. Some took the opportunity to criticize the early Republican front-runner in many polls, billionaire Donald Trump.
Former Hewlett-Packard Chief Executive Carly Fiorina called into question Trump's relationship with Bill Clinton after reports surfaced that Trump and Clinton spoke on the phone prior to Trump declaring his candidacy.
"I didn't get a phone call from Bill Clinton before I jumped into the race," Fiorina said. "Did any of you get a phone call from Bill Clinton? I didn't. Maybe it was because I didn't give money to the [Clinton] foundation or donate to his wife's Senate campaign."
Former Texas Governor Rick Perry cited Trump's lack of practical experience.
"We need a president that doesn't just talk a game, but a president that's gotten real results," Perry said.
Other highlights included South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham voicing support for sending U.S. troops to Iraq and Syria to fight terrorist group ISIS.
Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal took a hard line on immigration, saying he would seek to cut federal funding to so-called sanctuary cities that provide protection for illegal immigrants. There are about 30 such cities in California, including Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco.
At 6 p.m. Pacific time on Fox News, the 10 front-runners in the campaign will take the stage. That debate will feature Trump, Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, among others.