'You're just scum': Republicans tussle in fierce debate without Trump

Vivek Ramaswamy was called "scum", Nikki Haley clarified she wore five-inch heels, Tim Scott introduced his girlfriend Mindy and Ron DeSantis offered tepid criticism of former President Donald Trump.

All were key moments in the third Republican debate for the presidency.

Five candidates qualified, but Mr Trump again skipped the event.

He held a nearby rally instead where he called the debates "unwatchable" and said the party was "wasting time".