Washington: The anticipation is palpable as the 2024 Republican White House contenders prepare to spar in the inaugural debate of the election season this Wednesday.
However, the spotlight might be without its star, as former President Donald Trump threatens to be a notable absentee from the event.
With primary elections just five months away, Trump remains a dominant figure in the race, boasting unwavering grassroots support. Nonetheless, his comeback bid has been overshadowed by a string of criminal cases that have cast doubt on his political resurgence.
Also Read: India, WHO Launch Global Initiative on Digital Health at G20 Summit Today
Despite his substantial lead in popularity, the 77-year-old is considering skipping the Midwest debate in Milwaukee, fearing it might dilute his prominence when sharing the stage with lesser-known contenders.
Trump's social media post last Thursday conveyed his perspective: "I am leading the runner-up, whoever that may now be, by more than 50 Points. Reagan didn’t do it, and neither did others.
People know my Record, one of the BEST EVER, so why would I Debate?" He reportedly indicated his intent to skip the debate and opt for an online interview with Tucker Carlson, a former host at Fox News, the debate's organizer.
A campaign spokesperson responded cautiously, stating, "We haven't confirmed anything on our end." Regardless of his attendance, Trump is primed for attacks from rivals over the numerous criminal and civil trials surrounding allegations from his tumultuous presidency.
Fox News host Bret Baier, who will be moderating the debate, acknowledged the impact of Trump's legal troubles: "Obviously, his legal issues are affecting this race… All these candidates have been asked non-stop about what's happening in courtrooms around the country. So he'll be a part of this debate whether he's there or not."
Seven other candidates have qualified for the debate, including prominent figures like governors Ron DeSantis and Doug Burgum, former vice president Mike Pence, Trump's UN ambassador Nikki Haley, and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina. While Trump leads the polls by a considerable margin, allies are concerned that his absence might allow rivals to seize the limelight and build momentum.
Trump's decision deadline looms, set by the Republican National Committee for Monday. While his camp fears his no-show could benefit opponents, history offers a cautionary tale – Trump's absence in a debate during the 2016 election contributed to his loss in the Iowa caucus to Senator Ted Cruz.
To counter potential momentum gains by rivals, Trump is reportedly considering "counterprogramming" alongside the Carlson interview. He may also surrender to the county jail in Atlanta, where he faces indictment over an alleged conspiracy to steal the 2020 election.
In a strategic memo from the pro-DeSantis super PAC "Never Back Down," a blueprint emerges for DeSantis's potential debate approach. Encouraging him to criticize President Joe Biden, defend Trump against Chris Christie's attacks, and discredit newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy as "fake," the memo highlights the high-stakes strategies at play.
Also Read: World Humanitarian Day: Ancient Indian Philosophy and the Teachings of Humanity
As candidates prepare, they've been informed of a pledge to "honor the will of the primary voters" and support the eventual nominee, though the enforceability of such a commitment remains unclear.
Trump has declared he won't sign, while Christie, with a touch of sarcasm, stated he'd sign but treat it "as seriously as Donald Trump took it in 2016."
Furthermore, Trump has signaled his intention to skip the second debate in California on September 27, due to his aversion to its host, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute.
