'Talk show host' Trump hurts his chances

Donald Trump continued to dominate the Republican race for US president by causing further controversies in the first debate.

The tycoon's refusal to rule out a third-party run damaged his chances, said former Republican strategist Ron Christie.

"Americans are extraordinary loyal to their party of preference."

Mr Trump "really lost an opportunity from a perspective of gaining credibility" to people who consider him as a reality talk show host, said Mr Christie.