Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has announced that he will not be participating in the upcoming presidential debates within the Grand Old Party (GOP). This decision revealed on his social media platform Truth Social, stems from Trump’s belief that his recognition among the American public eliminates the need for him to engage in public debates with fellow contenders for the Oval Office.
In a bold statement, Trump underscored his accomplishments during his presidency and his widespread popularity among the people. His emphatic post included the declaration, “I WILL THEREFORE NOT BE DOING THE DEBATES!” presented in capital letters.
Scheduled for Wednesday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the first debate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination will proceed without Trump’s presence.
To fortify his decision, Trump referred to the recent CBS News poll results that demonstrated his remarkable lead in the Republican field. A substantial 62% of respondents expressed their intent to vote for him, notwithstanding the fact that he has faced four indictments this year alone. These charges encompass allegations of attempting to subvert US democracy by orchestrating efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and remain in power despite his defeat by Joe Biden.
Among Trump’s rivals, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis garnered the second-highest level of support in the CBS poll, with a modest 16%. The rest of the candidates polled in single-digit percentages.
Trump’s statement highlighted his familiarity to the public and emphasized his accomplishments during his presidency, ranging from energy policies to border security and the economy.
Amid speculation about his attendance at the Milwaukee debate, reports emerged that Trump had contemplated bypassing the event altogether in favor of an online interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. This alternative strategy was detailed by The New York Times on Friday.
While Trump will be absent from the physical stage, his legal challenges will play a pivotal role in the discourse. Four criminal and three civil trials loom over him, encompassing allegations spanning different periods before, during, and after his presidency.
Despite his non-participation, Trump is poised to remain a central topic of discussion during the debate. Bret Baier, a Fox News host who is set to moderate the event, conveyed to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that “Obviously, his legal issues are affecting this race.”
The roster for the debate includes seven other candidates, such as governors DeSantis and Doug Burgum, former Vice President Mike Pence, Trump’s former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott.
While Trump currently enjoys a commanding lead in polling, some of his supporters are apprehensive that his decision to skip the debate might provide competitors with opportunities to create memorable moments and gain momentum.
