HomeElection News

Four Candidates Qualify for Third Republican Presidential Debate, Trump Absent in Last Two

In the upcoming third Republican presidential debate, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 8 from 8 to 10 p.m. EST, only four candidates have qualified so far. The debate, set to take place at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Miami, Fla., will be broadcasted live on NBC News’ television, streaming, and digital platforms, including NBCNews.com. Additionally, viewers can watch the debate on Rumble, a popular online video platform among conservatives.


Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, left, argues a point with businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, right, between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, center, during a Republican presidential primary debate on Sept. 27, 2023, in Simi Valley, Calif. | Mark J. Terrill/AP

To qualify for the debate stage, candidates must meet stringent criteria: they need to attain at least 4 percent in two national polls, or 4 percent in one national poll and 4 percent in polls of two different early-primary states. Furthermore, candidates are required to secure 70,000 donors, all by the Nov. 6 deadline.

As of now, the candidates who have met the qualifications include former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Vice President Mike Pence have met the polling requirements but still need to hit the donor threshold. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has yet to reach 4 percent in one national poll and needs more donors to qualify.

Notably, Trump, who leads the Republican field in national polls, did not participate in the last two debates. His campaign has urged the Republican National Committee to cancel future primary debates, advocating for a shift in focus towards opposing President Joe Biden instead.

Subscribe to our newsletter

COMMENTS