Conservative pundit Charles Krauthammer argued that Donald Trump's decision to skip the GOP debate late last week cost him much-needed votes at Monday's Iowa caucuses.

The syndicated columnist contended that Trump's absence from the Republican debate allowed Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to court late deciders.

He also argued that Trump's controversial decision was perceived by some as a "slap in the face."

"I think that cost him a few votes," he argued.

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz won the caucus Monday night with 28 percent of the votes, followed by Trump with 24 percent and Rubio with 23 percent.

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