New York Post says Nikki soundly beat DeSantis tonight in their 2 person debate on CNN

There was no debate about who came out on top in Wednesday night’s head-to-head showdown between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley.

Of the five veteran politics watchers surveyed by The Post, four said Haley was the clear winner.

“She was sharp, informed, and compelling throughout the night,” he added. “Her use of ‘DeSantisLies.com’ was a smart rhetorical tactic by her campaign. Few will actually go to the website, but viewers heard that message over and over again. She drove it home.”

As for DeSantis, 45, O’Riley said the Sunshine State leader “hit his marks, but he lacks the confidence that Haley exudes. This debate won’t hurt DeSantis, but it did nothing to put momentum on his side.”

“His failure to display some level of humor or charm when going on the attack and his repeatedly calling Haley a liar will remind many women of their ex-husband,” Ryan predicted. “Haley came off strong and informed. She stood her ground and pushed back on DeSantis’ attacks. She was smart to focus more on her accomplishments.”

“Haley comes out of the debate with momentum. She comes across as the anti-Trump candidate in the race while DeSantis was trying to have it both ways.”

“Haley looked confident and sounded like a leader, but this is all the Twilight Zone,” said Democratic consultant Chris Coffey. “She can’t bring herself to go after Trump, who is leading in every poll. It’s like a battle to come in second after the game has been decided.

New York Post