<p>Prior to the latest GOP debate, CNN&#8217;s most watched presidential debate was a Demoratic one ;in 2008. It had an average of 8.3 million viewers.</p>
<p>This Wednesday&#8217;s GOP debate averaged 22.9 million viewers, making it the most watched program in CNN&#8217;s history. ;</p>
<p>In addition to television watchers, CNN&#8217;s online live stream averaged about 1 millions viewers, easily making it the most watched webstream of a primary debate ever.</p>
<p>Many attribute the ratings boost to the surging Donald Trump&#8217;s celebrity and unpredictable nature. Mr. Trump released the following tweet after the ratings were posted:</p>
<p>&#8220;Just announced that in the history of @CNN, last night&rsquo;s debate was its highest rated ever. Will they send me flowers &; a thank you note? ;</p>
<p>Brian Stelter, senior media correspondent for CNN, responded to Mr. Trump&#8217;s tweet with a flower image filled tweet of his own.</p>
<p>While the night and ratings were perhaps a result of the billionaire mogul, excitement about a deep, taltented ;batch of GOP candidates clearly played a part. The night showcased numerous candidates on the largest stage they might ever have, and that helps everyone in attendence.  ;</p>