Overview
- ABC News and CNN are reportedly interested in hosting future GOP primary debates, with ABC considering a debate ahead of the New Hampshire primary on January 23.
- Both networks are in the early stages of planning, with ABC officials having visited a potential venue in New Hampshire and CNN having reached out to presidential campaigns.
- The Republican National Committee (RNC) is considering ending its exclusivity pledge, which would allow networks to control debate qualifications and format.
- The next GOP debate, and the only one currently scheduled, will take place on Wednesday in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, hosted by NewsNation.
- Former President Donald Trump, who is leading in the GOP primary polls, has not participated in previous debates, citing his significant lead.