"Republican Candidates Brace for Tougher Rules in Second Debate"

The second GOP primary debate, set for September 27, may see a smaller stage as candidates scramble to meet the Republican National Committee's polling and fundraising thresholds. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson are at risk of missing the debate, while six other candidates appear to have already met the requirements. Former President Donald Trump, the front-runner, has met the thresholds but has refused to sign the pledge to support the eventual GOP nominee and has suggested he may not attend future debates. The RNC raised the thresholds for the second debate, making it more challenging for candidates to qualify.