Trump not to partake in Republican primaries, citing 'legendary' lead

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
21 Aug 2023 12:51

Former President Donald Trump says his participation is unnecessary given the significant margin of lead compared to other Republican candidates.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks as he visits the Iowa State Fair, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023 (AP)

Former US President Donald Trump has confirmed his decision to abstain from the 2024 Republican primary debate, asserting his dominant position as the frontrunner among candidates with "legendary" support numbers.

The forthcoming debate, scheduled for Wednesday, will mark a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the 2024 Republican primary. Trump's inclination to bypass this event was already hinted at in July, given his substantial lead in polls over other contenders. Reports suggest that Trump may consider an interview with Tucker Carlson as an alternative.

"New CBS POLL, just out, has me leading the field by 'legendary' numbers ... The public knows who I am & what a successful Presidency I had, with Energy Independence, Strong Borders & Military, Biggest EVER Tax & Regulation Cuts, No Inflation, Strongest Economy in History, & much more. I WILL THEREFORE NOT BE DOING THE DEBATES!" Trump said on Truth Social.

According to the most recent CBS poll concerning the Republican primary, Trump commands an impressive 62% of support, with his closest competitor, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, lagging behind at 16%. Notably, other contenders struggle to secure double-digit backing from Republican voters.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll released earlier this month showed that 52% of Republicans said they would not vote for former President Trump if he were imprisoned on election day and almost 50% would do the same if he were convicted of a felony.

This matters because although Trump remains the overwhelming favorite to win the Republican nominee in 2024, the survey indicates that his legal troubles may still hurt his prospects of winning the general election.

If Trump will be found guilty on January 6 investigation-related allegations, he could spend many years behind bars.