GOP presidential debates resumed Wednesday as competitors tried to dampen Donald Trump's momentum. Certain he'll win the primary, Trump picked a prime-time speech in Michigan instead. It capitalizes on the Auto Workers Union strike and is designed to reach union members, an important general election demographic.

The debate is held fewer than four months before the Iowa caucuses kick off the presidential nomination process. Trump leads despite four criminal indictments. His opponents are running out of time to fight him, so some want to face the former president nationally.

Republican strategist Kevin Madden, who served in Mitt Romney's campaigns, points out the role of fierce competition. He thinks that indeed the debate could awaken participants to the limited time.

This and the prior Milwaukee debates were watched despite the absence of former President Donald Trump. In the first debate, contenders steered clear of attacking Trump in front of nearly 13 million viewers.

Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis can make an impact in this second debate. Haley wants to continue on her momentum, while DeSantis wants improvement despite recent failures.

Other breakouts being sought are from Mike Pence, Tim Scott, Vivek Ramaswamy, Doug Burgum, and Chris Christie. Candidates can use the debate to pitch their candidacy to a national audience.

The event is held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library as a tribute to Reagan's legacy in Republican politics. Under Trump, there has been change for the GOP coming from several long standing beliefs.

Even with these adjustments considered, the debate sets up an opportunity that is imperative for candidates to identify themselves while also shaping the 2024 Republican nomination.