Trump heads to Michigan, misses another GOP presidential debate

The Republican presidential debate is taking place without front-runner Donald Trump, giving the other candidates more airtime to make their case. However, their reticence to criticize Trump has been consistent throughout the year. The debate coincides with thousands of auto workers striking in Michigan, posing a challenge for the candidates as they try to appeal to white working-class voters while maintaining the party’s traditional anti-union positions. The candidates will also be pressed to take a position on a potential government shutdown and the issue of abortion, which some Republicans see as Trump’s weakness.