The stage is set for the first debate among Republican contenders vying for the party’s nomination in the 2024 presidential race. Notably absent from the event is former President Donald Trump, who, by not signing the GOP’s loyalty pledge, has rendered himself ineligible for participation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the personal wealth of key candidates in the debate, shedding light on their financial backgrounds and how they amassed their fortunes.

1. Doug Burgum:
   • Net Worth: $1.1 billion
   • Source of Wealth: Founded tech company Great Plains Software, sold to Microsoft in 2001. Currently serves on the boards of Atlassian and SuccessFactors and is involved in real estate development.
2. Chris Christie:
   • Net Worth: Estimated between $5 million and $19 million
   • Source of Wealth: Former New Jersey governor, attorney, and U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. Reportedly, a contentious relationship with Donald Trump.
3. Ron DeSantis:
   • Net Worth: $1.17 million
   • Source of Wealth: Florida Governor with a salary supplemented by a $1.25 million book advance. Despite controversies, he remains the least wealthy candidate on the stage.
4. Nikki Haley:
   • Net Worth: $8 million
   • Source of Wealth: Former South Dakota governor and U.S. ambassador to the UN. Earned from speaking engagements, book deals, and serving on corporate boards after leaving the Trump administration.
5. Asa Hutchinson:
   • Net Worth: Estimated at $1.5 million
   • Source of Wealth: Former Arkansas governor with most of his wealth tied up in real estate, particularly his house. Also holds pensions from the federal government and the state.
6. Mike Pence:
   • Net Worth: Estimated at $4 million
   • Source of Wealth: Former Vice President and Indiana governor. Quadrupled his fortune through public speaking engagements, book deals, and investments in blue-chip companies.
7. Vivek Ramaswamy:
   • Net Worth: $630 million
   • Source of Wealth: Successful career as an investment partner, founder of biotech company Roivant Sciences, and creator of “anti-woke” index fund provider Strive Asset Management.
8. Tim Scott:
   • Net Worth: $3.88 million
   • Source of Wealth: South Carolina senator with a background of overcoming poverty. Started his own insurance company and has received advances for his memoir.
9. Donald Trump:
   • Estimated Net Worth: $2.5 billion (Forbes estimate)
   • Source of Wealth: Real estate and golf clubs owned through The Trump Organization, as well as the controversial Truth Social platform. Born into a wealthy family and inherited substantial assets from his father.

As the Republican candidates vie for the spotlight in the absence of Donald Trump, their diverse financial backgrounds and sources of wealth provide a unique perspective on their journeys. From tech entrepreneurs to career politicians, each contender brings a distinct financial narrative to the table. As the debate unfolds, the candidates’ positions on key issues and their ability to connect with voters will play a crucial role in determining the path forward for the Republican Party in the 2024 presidential race.