The Star’s editorial board: How the 10 top GOP presidential contenders fared

He soared when talking education with fellow Floridian Marco Rubio, but continued to fumble for a thoughtful statement on foreign policy. While he offered low-key, rational thoughts on a few issues such as immigration during the night, there was no promotion to frontrunner status.

Despite attempts at thoughtfulness, he seemed mostly outnumbered and outclassed by candidates with a better grasp of the issues and details beyond congenial soundbites. Look for him to be demoted to junior varsity status.

Verbal fisticuffs with Paul over the NSA’s bulk phone data collection provided the debate’s most dramatic moment. The New Jersey governor was impressive in defending a balance between civil liberties and national security. He also won a round against Mike Huckabee on a Social Security question. Looking more like the combative Chris Christie of four years ago.

This story was originally published August 5, 2015 at 4:36 PM with the headline "The Star’s editorial board: How the 10 top GOP presidential contenders fared."