Fox News seems to be taking a stance against former President Donald Trump’s decision to skip the first GOP primary debate, which the network is scheduled to moderate live from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
As per a network memo obtained by Mediaite, Fox executives have decided to prevent surrogates from participating in the debate spin room for candidates not on the debate stage. This effectively bars advocates for the former president.
Axios initially reported that this decision came after Donald Trump, aged 77, confirmed his non-participation in the event. The debate is set to air on Fox News and has caused discussions about Trump surrogates’ participation.
Surrogates for any candidate not making the debate stage will not be permitted at the debate. This rule applies broadly and is not specifically directed at Trump. Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., had announced his intention to attend as his father’s surrogate, and Kimberly Guilfoyle, Trump’s fiancée, was expected to manage media for the former president at the event.
CNN’s Alayna Treene tweeted about the situation, revealing that Trump’s teams and surrogates are still planning to travel to Milwaukee and are working on a resolution with the network and the Republican National Committee (RNC).
Trump shared on his Truth Social media platform that he would not attend future Republican primary debates. He referenced a new CBS News poll showing him with 62 percent support as the basis for his decision.
He emphasized his successful presidency with achievements like energy independence, strong borders, significant tax cuts, and more, stating that he would not participate in the debates.
Facing multiple indictments and leading the 2024 GOP presidential race, Trump is planning an alternative cable news appearance and an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson as a counter to the upcoming Fox News debate.
Sources close to the Trump campaign have informed CNN about discussions concerning potential counterprogramming strategies to divert attention from the Fox News debate in Milwaukee.
While conversations about an interview with Carlson are ongoing, there is no fixed plan yet. Trump, despite his strong position in the polls, has considered skipping the debates. Although he hasn’t undergone debate preparation, there’s still a possibility of his last-minute participation.
Trump had previously suggested a one-on-one interview with Carlson on the same night as the first Republican primary debate. The first debate will include participants like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, Senator Tim Scott, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.
Members of Trump’s campaign, including his senior advisers, were also planning on being in the spin room.
But Fox News is in charge of credentials for the spin room. The RNC manages credentials for the actual debate, and sources said those tickets are still expected be honored.
— Alayna Treene (@alaynatreene) August 22, 2023