With Trump absent, Republican rivals trade attacks at first 2024 debate

The empty debate stage awaits the arrival of the candidates before the start of the first Republican candidates' debate of the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S., August 23, 2023. REUTERS/Brian Snyder

MILWAUKEE (Reuters) -Eight Republican presidential candidates traded barbs on Wednesday at their first debate of the 2024 election as they jockeyed for position behind the absent front-runner, Donald Trump, who derided the event in a pre-taped interview aimed at siphoning away viewers.

The raucous two-hour debate offered a view of the deep challenges the contenders face in seeking to dislodge Trump from his perch at the top of the field.