It has been an interesting few weeks for Ben Carson. The retired pediatric neurosurgeon rose to the top of the Republican primary polls, running neck-and-neck with Donald Trump. But then the media spotlight that comes with the lead got brighter, and he spent most of the weekend trying to deflect media reports about his past. And this was after his unorthodox views on the Egyptian Pyramids went public.
If Carson wants to maintain his lead, he’ll need to capitalize on the attention by continuing to deflect, and keep attacking the media. If there is any chance to talk about how his record has been distorted and to bash on reporters, he should do it. It’s a good way to appeal to conservative and evangelical voters, both of whom are essential to Carson’s success.
In terms of substantive policy, Carson will likely want to continue being relatively vague, as has been his modus operandi for most of the campaign. He can reiterate his support for the flat tax, but he’s gotten this far mostly by talking about leadership and banking on being an outsider; he should continue to do that.
More on what each of the top GOP Candidates need to do at tonight’s debate: