Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has experienced a surge in popularity following his "impressive" performance at the first Republican presidential primary debate. Ramaswamy's online fundraising also saw a significant increase, with over $450,000 raised within the first hour of the August 23 debate, with an average donation of $38, PTI reported.

Ramaswamy faced criticism from opponents within the debate. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie likened Ramaswamy's performance to that of ChatGPT, while former Vice President Mike Pence labelled him a "rookie" and said that the country does not need a novice to be at the helm of America's affairs. South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley accused Ramaswamy of supporting the Russo-Ukraine war.