Carson: If debate turns to foreign policy, ‘slam dunk’

by Jesse Byrnes - 12/15/15 11:57 AM ET

Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson on Tuesday expressed confidence heading into the first GOP debate since fears of international terrorism spiked among the American public.

“I sure hope we’re going to get a lot of questions about foreign affairs and national defense. If so, slam dunk,” the retired neurosurgeon said in a video shared with followers.

https://t.co/eKNNznc5QR

— Dr. Ben Carson (@RealBenCarson) December 15, 2015

{mosads}Carson has tumbled in polls for the GOP presidential nomination over the past several weeks amid a renewed focus on terrorism after shootings in Paris and San Bernardino, Calif.

Meanwhile, rival Donald Trump bolstered his position in the crowded GOP field in the wake of the attacks, including pushing for a controversial temporary ban on Muslim foreign nationals entering the U.S.

Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas), another Republican candidate viewed as hawkish on foreign policy, has also climbed in polls recently, while Sen. Marco Rubio (Fla.) has remained within striking distance.

Carson has at times struggled on the topic of foreign policy, receiving attention earlier this month for mispronouncing the name of the Palestinian group Hamas and getting criticism from an adviser.

Candidates are expected to highlight their different approaches to terrorism during the fifth GOP debate Tuesday night in Las Vegas.

Tags 2016 GOP primary Ben Carson GOP debate Terrorism