Presidential hopeful Marco Rubio has his last chance to make an impact in a Republican debate before Tuesday's do-or-die contest in Florida.
He has taken to the stage in his home city of Miami a long way behind Donald Trump and Ted Cruz in the race to be his party's nominee.
After criticism of the insult-ridden last debate, Republican leaders wanted a more presidential tone this time.
Mr Trump picked up a key endorsement of Ben Carson hours beforehand.
Crucial state contests are being held in Florida and Ohio on Tuesday, as Mr Trump's rivals try to make up ground.
Ohio Governor John Kasich and Florida Senator Mr Rubio are under pressure to win their home states.
There are 350 delegates up for grabs on Tuesday, with the winner taking all in Florida.
Mr Trump, a billionaire businessman from New York with no political experience in office, has dominated the news, the polls and the state primary contests so far.
On Wednesday, he added to his list of controversial remarks when he told CNN: "I think Islam hates us, there's a tremendous hatred. We have to get to the bottom of it."
There were signs that Mr Trump has been more conciliatory of late.
After additional state wins on Tuesday night, he said he had "great respect" for House Speaker Paul Ryan.
He also discouraged booing at the mention of former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney's name and urged the Republican party to "unify" behind him.
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