RNC will only present loyalty pledge to candidates once they qualify for debate
Julia Johnson
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The Republican National Committee’s controversial pledge for primary candidates to support the eventual nominee, which is a requirement for the debate stage, will not be presented to candidates until they qualify for the debates.
A person familiar with the RNC’s plans confirmed to the Washington Examiner that the pledge will not be given to candidates for their signatures until they qualify for the debates in August in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
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The move will make it more difficult for primary candidates to point to the pledge as their reasoning for not participating in the primary debate.
Each candidate will have to satisfy the other requirements for the debate stage before being given the opportunity to sign the pledge.
Several candidates, such as former President Donald Trump, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, and former Texas Rep. Will Hurd, have expressed skepticism about signing and adhering to the pledge.
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Candidates must also satisfy polling and fundraising requirements in order to earn a spot on the stage. They have until 48 hours prior to the debate to meet the qualifications.
The Republican primary debate will take place on Aug. 23 and will air on Fox News.