The debate emphasized national security , foreign policy . Debate was the 11th major debate between the Republican candidates . A Republican presidential debate on Tuesday focused on national security issues exposed deep fault lines within the GOP over how to grapple with the nation 's challenges overseas . Trump was latest front - runner in the polls heading into debate .
The debate emphasized national security , foreign policy . Debate was the 11th major debate between the Republican candidates . Trump was latest front - runner in the polls heading into debate .