**Outline:**

* Body: The debate was heated and contentious, with the candidates clashing on a range of issues, including the economy, immigration, and social policy. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seen as Trump's biggest challenger, was a major target of attacks from his rivals.

* Conclusion: The Simi Valley debate was a significant moment in the Republican primary race, and it will be interesting to see how it impacts the candidates' campaigns in the coming weeks and months.

**Full Description:**

The second Republican presidential debate of the 2024 primary season was held on Wednesday night in Simi Valley, California. Seven candidates took the stage, but former President Donald Trump, the front-runner for the GOP nomination, skipped the event.

The debate was heated and contentious, with the candidates clashing on a range of issues, including the economy, immigration, and social policy. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seen as Trump's biggest challenger, was a major target of attacks from his rivals.

South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott criticized DeSantis' handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in Florida, while former Vice President Mike Pence accused him of being too close to Trump. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said that DeSantis was "not ready" to be president.

DeSantis defended his record as governor, and he fired back at his critics, accusing them of being part of the "establishment." He also said that he was the only candidate who could defeat Trump in the primary and President Joe Biden in the general election.

Other notable moments from the debate included:

* Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley said that she would not support Trump if he were the Republican nominee.

* Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy called for a ban on immigration from Muslim-majority countries.

* North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum said that he would support a national abortion ban.

The Simi Valley debate was a significant moment in the Republican primary race, and it will be interesting to see how it impacts the candidates' campaigns in the coming weeks and months.

**Analysis:**

The Simi Valley debate showed that the Republican primary race is still wide open, despite Trump's lead in the polls. DeSantis is a strong challenger, but he is facing criticism from his rivals on both the left and the right.

The debate also highlighted the deep divisions within the Republican Party. The candidates clashed on a range of issues, and it was clear that there is no consensus on the future of the party.

It remains to be seen who will emerge as the Republican nominee in 2024. But the Simi Valley debate showed that the race is still very competitive.