The first Republican debate leading up to the 2024 presidential election is set to take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a crucial swing state. Despite qualifying for the debate, former President Donald Trump announced that he would be skipping it. A CBS News poll revealed that Trump has a commanding lead among likely Republican primary voters, with 62% support, followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 16%. The rest of the candidates garnered single-digit support. The Republican National Committee (RNC) established qualifications for the debate, including reaching at least 1% in eligible polls, gathering 40,000 donors, and signing a pledge to support the party’s nominee.
It was reported that North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum was injured during a pick-up basketball game with his staff ahead of the debate, raising uncertainty about his participation. The debate, which will be hosted and broadcast by Fox News, will be moderated by Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum. The moderators aim to facilitate discussions on how candidates plan to improve the country. Topics such as abortion and the U.S. role in Ukraine following Russia’s invasion may also be touched upon. The next debate is scheduled to be held on September 27 at the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. As for the Democrats, they are currently not planning to hold any debates, with President Biden facing challenges from unlikely contenders Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson.
In summary, the stage is set for the first Republican debate of the 2024 presidential race in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Former President Donald Trump has decided to skip the debate despite being the frontrunner in the Republican primary race. The debate will feature eight candidates who have met the Republican National Committee’s qualifications, including Governor Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence. The Fox News debate will be moderated by Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum, who aim to discuss topics such as improving the country and the U.S. role in Ukraine. Governor Doug Burgum’s participation is uncertain after suffering an injury during a basketball game. The next debate is scheduled for September 27 at the Ronald Reagan Library, and the Democrats currently do not have any debates planned.
