Battle of the Upstarts: Vivek Ramaswamy-Ro Khanna Debate Set For Nov. 1 in New Hampshire
- The progressive Congressman is likely to pitch his populist economic vision for the United States, while the Republican presidential contender is expected to present his radical blueprint for America.
Progressive Congressman Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy will spar in New Hampshire on Nov. 1 at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm College in Manchester. The two Indian Americans will debate on ideological and political divides between the conservatives and liberals in America today.
It remainst to be seen if the debate will pump some life into the Republican’s campaign which seems to have flattend out since his breakout performance in the first GOP primary debate. Contrary to initial expectations, it is Nikki Haley, the other Indian American contender, that seems to have helped herself with her debate performances.
It is not clear what are Rep. Khanna’s stakes in participating in the debate, except to burnish his credentials with moderate Republicans whom he has been courting, presumably for his long-term political ambitions.
According to The Hill, Khanna “intends to pitch his populist economic vision for the United States, which he’s touted in several swing and early-voting states nationwide.” Ramaswamy is expected “to present his blueprint for America, which draws from populist ideas and rhetoric from the GOP side, as he competes for the White House nomination as a right-wing upstart,” the publication reported.
The Hill further noted that the Granite State is “a familiar stomping ground to both politicians.” Khanna has visited the early primary state on several occasions, The Hill said, “most recently during the midterms and lead-up to the 2024 election cycle, promoting Democrats up and down the ballot.”
The idea of a debate with Ramaswamy was suggested by Khanna in a post on X. “The University of Chicago Institute of Politics wants to have a civil discourse with the two of us on race, identity, and the American dream. I accepted. I assume, as a speech advocate, you’re game.” In response, Ramaswamy said he was open to debating “a smart Democrat who’s willing.” He did suggest a change of location. “If you are willing to do it in New Hampshire, I’m game.”
A press release from the venue said the “The Future of America Debate” will be moderated by James Pindell, a reporter at The Boston Globe and an NBC/MSNBC on-air political contributor.