Fiorina stands out in crowded debate as she tries to put Trump in his place
Ex-corporate executive stood out on a crowded Republican debate stage
Carly Fiorina has emerged as a formidable challenger to Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump, as issues such as national security got a serious airing in the second Republican debate and suggested a turning point in the 2016 campaign.
Trump will likely remain the front-runner, and his remarks will be the most talked about features of Wednesday's second presidential debate. But most of the encounter at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library showcased policy differences, sometimes stark, sometimes nuanced, and saw Fiorina scrapping to elbow Trump out of the spotlight.
The debate's tone signalled that the campaign was moving into a more serious phase. As election days get nearer, people begin to judge candidates as potential presidents, demanding less entertainment and more depth and gravitas.
The opening minutes of the event featured Trump blasting away at his rivals and challengers swinging right back. Trump continues to tap voter frustration with government and politics as usual. But it became clear Fiorina is poised to move up fast.
She had a big opening, having shined in the August debate among lower-polling candidates. Then Trump criticised Fiorina's appearance, allowing her to get feisty fast. "Women heard very clearly what Mr Trump said," Fiorina said on Wednesday. The audience cheered.
Trump came back with a half-smile. "She's got a beautiful face and I think she's a beautiful woman," he said.
Fiorina, a former corporate executive, illustrated in staccato-like style a command of foreign affairs, rattling off details about world trouble spots, talking in personal terms about what it would take to curb threats from Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
