(Corine Gatti, Headline USA) Former President Donald Trump has not confirmed plans to attend the first GOP primary debate on Aug. 21 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, raising questions if he would hold a competing event from another location.
Trump argued he doesn’t need to be present at the debate because of his significant polling advantage lead over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the rest of the GOP field.
“He is not going to debate unless he’s forced to by changing polling,” a Trump adviser told NBC. “I disagree with it, but it is where he is. But if he does not debate, I doubt he’s staying home.”
Meanwhile, Trump has shopped opinions from everyone about joining the debate, the adviser said. “He wants to know what everyone thinks but will ultimately do what he wants to do. In general, he is asking everyone, from the bellman to [RNC Chair] Ronna McDaniel.”
Trump was reportedly reluctant to debate because of requirements issued by the Republican National Committee — this included pledging support for the party’s eventual presidential nominee, the Washington Examiner reported. Trump declined and skipped the last primary debate that was held before the Iowa caucuses in 2016 and held a veteran fundraiser instead.
The RNC and Fox News may face consequences if Trump skips the debate, as his absence would leave a YUGE void. The debate’s success may suffer as a result, which could be a significant blow to the Republican Party.
Trump blasted Fox News for not covering his recent achievements, including being awarded the “Man of the Decade” in Michigan and giving the keynote speech for Faith & Freedom in D.C.
“All they do is promote, against all hope, Ron DeSanctimonious, and he’s dropping like a rock. Sorry FoxNews, life doesn’t work that way!!!.” he posted on Truth Social.
