Trump's Opponents Debate Tomorrow — He Says He Won't Show Up
Aug 22, 2023
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Governors, former governors, entrepreneurs, and senators come together for the first Republican primary debate. Trump decides not to participate and instead gives an interview. They discuss the impact of his absence, qualification criteria, opportunities, and challenges for other candidates.
Former President Donald Trump chose not to participate in the first GOP primary debate, opting for counter programming with an interview with Tucker Carlson, reflecting his tendency for chaos and attention-grabbing.
In the shadow of Trump's dominance within the party, the Republican candidates in the debate must focus on showcasing their grasp of key issues, displaying discipline, and effectively debating their opponents, rather than directly challenging Trump.
Deep dives
Trump's Decision to Skip the Debate
Former President Donald Trump has chosen not to participate in the first GOP primary debate for the 2024 election cycle. He argues that the debates are unnecessary for him as voters already know him and his capabilities as a potential president. Though some Republican strategists question his choice, Trump has opted for counter programming, conducting an interview with Tucker Carlson that coincides with the debate. This move aligns with his tendency for chaos and grabbing attention. While politically savvy in some respects, it is surprising given the critical state of Wisconsin.
Challenging the Shadow of Trump
The eight Republican candidates present in the debate face the challenge of standing out in the shadow of Trump, who remains a dominant figure within the party. Going after Trump directly is considered risky due to the deeply entrenched support he enjoys among Republican voters. Instead, candidates must focus on making a strong case for themselves by showcasing their grasp of key issues, displaying discipline, and demonstrating their ability to effectively debate their opponents.
The Requirements and Potential Risks for Candidates
Candidates for the debate had to meet criteria like donor and polling thresholds, as well as a loyalty pledge. The loyalty pledge, originally introduced to benefit Trump, requires candidates to promise their support to the Republican nominee even if they do not win. This move is ironic considering Trump's absence and refusal to pledge support to another candidate. While signing the pledge does not necessarily indicate true loyalty, it provides an opportunity for candidates to challenge Trump and attempt to differentiate themselves. The debate also brings the risk of candidates being overshadowed by Trump while competing for limited attention and substantial moments.
North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson, former vice president Mike Pence, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina will participate in the first Republican primary debate tomorrow in Milwaukee. Trump, in lieu of participating, sat for an interview with broadcaster Tucker Carlson.
This episode: White House correspondent Asma Khalid, White House correspondent Franco Ordoñez, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.
The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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