RNC first debate rules pose challenge to underfunded candidates

The Republican National Committee on Friday set out its criteria for candidates to qualify for the first Republican presidential primary debate, setting a key fundraising threshold and requiring candidates to pledge to support the final party nominee.

The criteria for the debate, scheduled for Aug. 23 in Milwaukee, come as the Republican presidential primary field grows increasingly crowded, with several contenders expected to enter the race in the coming days and weeks. A second debate could be held on August 24 if enough candidates qualify, the RNC said in a statement.

To qualify for the podium, candidates must receive support of at least 1 percent in multiple national polls recognized by the commission, and some polls from early voting states also count. The candidates must also have a minimum of 40,000 unique donors for their campaign, with at least 200 unique donors per state or territory, in 20 states and territories, according to the committee.

The debate threshold of 40,000 donors is likely to prove a consistent and costly barrier for some underfunded candidates. Republican campaigns had already been informed informally of the criteria, and some were in a race to make sure they had enough backers. Some super PACs spend money on online advertising to generate small donations to the campaigns.

The criteria for the additional debates have not been announced. A person aware of the discussions said there could be an escalation in the donor threshold for later debates, or for required polls.

Two Republicans familiar with the discussions said Gov. Ron DeSantis’ team would have wanted a threshold higher than 1 percent, which would likely have thinned the stage, allowing him to interact more directly with former President Donald J. Trump, the current Republican. front. runner.

Mr. Trump, for his part, has already suggested he might skip primary debates, claiming it wasn’t worth his time debating his rivals because of his polling advantage.

Candidates hoping to debate in the August matchup are also expected to pledge not to participate in debates not approved by the party committee for the remainder of the election cycle, and to pledge to support the eventual Republican nominee.

Those who make it to the podium are grouped by polls, with the candidate with the most votes in the middle, the committee said.

Fox news is planned to host the first debate in Milwaukee.

Shane Goldmacher And Maggie Haberman reporting contributed.