Trump opts out of Republican primary debates.

Former President Donald Trump ‍ Declares He Will Not Participate in Republican Primary Debates

In a surprising announcement on Sunday, former President Donald Trump revealed that he will not be taking part in the upcoming ⁣Republican Party presidential primary debates. Trump justified his decision by pointing⁤ to a recent CBS News poll that showed him leading ⁣with 62% support, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trailed far behind at 16%, with other candidates barely registering in the single digits.

Trump confidently ⁢stated that he believes voters already know who⁣ he is, making‌ the debates unnecessary. He emphatically concluded ⁣his statement ⁢by declaring, “I‍ WILL THEREFORE NOT BE​ DOING THE DEBATES!”

Trump confirms he won’t be doing any debates. (Plural.) pic.twitter.com/buTDl3fCni

— ⁢Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) August 20, 2023

RNC Chairwoman Hopes for Trump’s Participation

RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel expressed her hope earlier in⁢ the day that former President Trump would reconsider his decision, emphasizing the importance of hearing from all the candidates. She stated, “It’s​ so important that the American people hear from all the candidates.”

DeSantis ⁤Criticizes Trump’s Refusal to Debate

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis strongly criticized Trump ‌last week for his refusal to commit to participating in the debates. DeSantis pointed out that Trump has primarily targeted him with ​attacks, while other candidates have focused less on the former president. DeSantis argued that if Trump truly believed he had the election in the bag, he wouldn’t be concerned about other candidates and should be ⁢willing to debate.

DeSantis also suggested that Trump’s reluctance to debate stems from his desire to avoid defending his record ⁢and unfulfilled campaign⁢ promises from‍ 2016.

Chris Christie Slams Trump’s Avoidance of Debates

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie didn’t hold back in his criticism of Trump’s decision, taking to social media to express his disdain. Christie wrote, “Surprise,‌ surprise… the guy‌ who is out on bail from four jurisdictions and can’t defend his reprehensible conduct, is running scared and hiding from the ​debate stage. Trump ⁢- certified ​loser, verified coward.”

Mike Pence Hopes for Trump’s Last-Minute Change​ of Heart

Former Vice⁢ President ‌Mike‌ Pence‍ expressed his optimism that Trump might still change‌ his mind and participate in the debates. Pence noted that Trump often makes decisions at the last moment and expressed his hope ‍that Trump would ultimately show up.

Vivek ⁢Ramaswamy’s Changing Stance on Trump’s Debate Attendance

Vivek Ramaswamy, known for his flip-flopping⁢ on issues, initially expected Trump to participate in the debates a few​ months ago. However, Ramaswamy has now shifted his position, ⁢stating that he has ‌”no problem” with Trump skipping the first few debates and that⁣ it’s “fine” if he chooses not to show up.

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