With the dust settling from the inaugural Republican primary debate, the whirlwind of the presidential debate season is now in full force. The first debate saw fiery clashes on topics ranging from a national abortion ban to funding for the war in Ukraine, coupled with in-depth discussions about climate change. As the nation gears up for more political showdowns, eyes are turning toward Fox’s upcoming second GOP primary debate, poised to deliver another dose of electoral drama.
From left, Republican presidential candidates Mike Pence, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley and Tim Scott are seen before the first Republican presidential debate. | Francis Chung/POLITICO
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything we know so far about the impending debate:
Date and Time:
The highly anticipated second Republican primary debate is scheduled for September 27, although the exact time for the event is still to be determined.
How to Watch:
The debate will be broadcast on Fox Business, offering viewers across the nation a front-row seat to the political spectacle. Additionally, the conservative-leaning online video platform Rumble and Univision are teaming up with Fox Business to provide alternate viewing options for the debate.
Venue:
The debate is set to unfold at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute in the picturesque surroundings of Simi Valley, California. This historic location adds an extra layer of significance to the event.
Moderators:
The list of moderators for the second debate is yet to be announced. Fox Business has kept the suspense alive by keeping the identity of the moderators under wraps.
Qualification Criteria:
Candidates vying for a spot in the second Republican primary debate will need to meet specific criteria. They must achieve a minimum of 3 percent in two national polls, or secure 3 percent in one national poll and 3 percent in two polls conducted within early nominating states like Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Nevada.
Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate their support base by garnering at least 50,000 donors, with a minimum of 200 unique donors from a minimum of 20 different states or territories.
Qualified Candidates:
While the lineup for the second debate is far from finalized, some candidates have already met the stringent qualifications. Former President Donald Trump is among those who have met the criteria, although he has cast doubt on his participation, indicating on his Truth Social platform that he will “not be doing the debates.”
Joining Trump are other notable contenders such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
As the countdown begins to the second Republican primary debate, the nation anticipates another round of impassioned debates, policy showdowns, and insightful exchanges that will continue to shape the political landscape as the 2024 presidential race unfolds.
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