Former President Donald J. Trump has decided to skip the upcoming Republican debate and instead post an online interview with Tucker Carlson. This decision is seen as a provocation towards Fox News, as Mr. Carlson is currently at odds with the network. However, Trump’s primary motive for skipping the debate is to avoid risking his lead in the Republican race, which some close to him believe he must win to stay out of prison. Trump has a complicated relationship with Fox News, expressing both hatred and recognition of the network’s power. He has criticized their coverage of him and accused them of purposely showing unflattering pictures. Despite this, Fox executives still expect a lower audience for the debate, although Trump’s presence would likely boost interest.
Trump has been using his leverage to try and influence Fox’s coverage of him. During a dinner with Fox executives, he questioned the network’s coverage and expressed disbelief that they had fired Carlson. There has also been tension between Trump and Bret Baier, one of the moderators for the upcoming debate. Baier interviewed Trump in June, which Trump initially called fair but later criticized as unfriendly. Despite this, Baier and co-host Martha MacCallum plan to make Trump a major figure in the debate whether he attends or not. The Fox team has prepared questions about Trump’s recent criminal indictment and may integrate video of him into their questioning.
Senior members of Trump’s team plan to attend the debate, but as of now, Trump has lost interest in attending. Instead, he will participate in the interview with Carlson, although the exact timing and platform remain unclear. The Republican National Committee has updated its rules to require candidates to sign a pledge before the debate, including commitments to support the party’s nominee and to not run as a third-party candidate. Fox News has had more time to prepare for Trump’s absence compared to when he skipped a debate in 2016. The debate will have strict time limits for answers, with a sound signaling when a candidate’s time is up.
Overall, Trump’s decision to skip the debate and post an interview with Carlson instead is a calculated political move. He is trying to maintain his lead in the Republican race while also making a statement towards Fox News. The debate is still expected to take place, with or without Trump’s presence, and Fox executives are prepared for his absence. The event will likely focus on Trump, with questions about his recent indictment and the possibility of integrating video footage of him.
Original Story at www.nytimes.com – 2023-08-19 17:51:36
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