Trump Defies Republican Loyalty Pledge, Contemplates Skipping Debate

Former President Donald Trump has stated that he will not sign a pledge to support the Republican nominee if he loses the GOP presidential primary, defying a requirement for participating in the first debate. Trump questioned the need for the pledge, citing candidates he wouldn't support, but declined to name them. His refusal to sign suggests he plans to skip the debate, as he has previously suggested. Trump has pushed back against participating in the debate, claiming his substantial polling lead makes it unnecessary. Eight candidates have met the qualifications to be on stage, and candidates must also sign a statement pledging not to participate in unsanctioned debates or run as an independent or third-party nominee.