"Republican Debate Criteria Sparks Controversy and Competition Among Networks"

The Republican National Committee has announced that the first presidential primary debate will take place on August 23 in Milwaukee and set the polling and donor thresholds candidates must meet to make the stage. Candidates will need to register at least 1% in three national polls or a combination of national polls and a poll from the early-voting states recognized by the RNC. Qualifying candidates will also need a minimum of 40,000 unique donors to their principal presidential campaign committee, with at least 200 unique donors per state or territory in 20+ states and/or territories. The candidates must also sign a pledge agreeing to support the eventual party nominee.