Donald Trump cancelled plans to moderate a Dec. 27 debate with Newsmax, citing a possible intent to run as an independent. “It is very important to me that the right Republican candidate be chosen… but if that Republican, in my opinion, is not the right candidate, I am not willing to give up my right to run as an Independent candidate,” Trump said.
Only two candidates agreed to attend the debate, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum. Other candidates declined, citing scheduling conflicts or criticizing Trump’s viability as a serious moderator. “I would like to thank Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum for having the courage, conviction, and confidence to immediately accept being a part of the Newsmax debate,” Trump said.
