From Des Moines, Iowa -
Following through on his threat to boycott a debate sponsored by Fox News, Donald Trump will instead lead an election rally just a few miles from the GOP debate site in Des Moines, as Trump's opponents skewered the GOP frontrunner just days before Iowans voted in this first caucus state.
"You know, Donald is a fragile soul," said Ted Cruz to a crowd of supporters, who cheered on his jabs over Trump's debate decision.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
"Apparently Mr. Trump considers Megyn Kelly very, very, scary," Cruz said with mock concern, much to the delight of a rally in West Des Moines.
Others joined in as well.
"The guy who is leading in the polls here, isn't even going to show up for your debate," said Chris Christie.
One of the Republicans running for President still wasn't convinced that Trump would be absent.
"He'll show up," Jeb Bush told reporters after remarks in Des Moines.
"I've got a $20 bet on it," Bush added, even as he blasted Trump.
"The press is being played like nobody's business," Bush said. "Poor little Donald; being mistreated."
Instead of going to the Republican debate, Trump will hold a rally at Drake University, just a few miles down the road in Des Moines.
It will lead to a unique split screen on different television networks, with Trump live on CNN, and the debate live on Fox News.
The focus on Trump's plan seemed to aggravated Marco Rubio as he campaigned in West Des Moines.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
"Interesting sideshow - greatest show on earth," Rubio said sarcastically, as he implored his audience to realize that big issues are at stake in this election.
"This is not a show; this is serious," said Rubio.
As for Trump, he defended his decision during a rally in Lexington, South Carolina, again pointing the finger at Fox News, claiming that their ad rates for the debate will have to go way down without him.
"I got a very unfair question from somebody, but we don't need to talk about that," Trump said to cheering from his backers.
About the Author
