"Mike Pence Secures Spot in Historic GOP Debate"

Former Vice President Mike Pence has qualified for the first Republican presidential primary debate on August 23, joining seven other candidates who have already met the requirements. This sets up a potential faceoff with former President Donald Trump, who has publicly floated skipping the debate. Pence's qualification came after surpassing the 40,000 donor requirement, which some of his opponents reached earlier. The major question remains whether Trump will participate, potentially setting up a showdown between Pence and his former boss. Pence's denouncement of Trump's fitness for office and the RNC's requirement to pledge support to the eventual nominee may clash. Pence is likely to qualify for the second GOP debate on September 27.