Roughly 60 New Hampshire Republicans sent an open letter to Fox News and the Republican National Committee (RNC) expressing concerns about the criteria and format for the first presidential primary debate, scheduled for August 6.
The letter shows disapproval about limiting the debate to 10 candidates.
“We urge you to reconsider the criteria and to design a debate that will allow voters to hear from a more diverse and inclusive group of candidates who have filed to run for president,” the letter states.
The New Hampshire Republicans argue that limiting the number of candidates would prevent quality individuals from showcasing their talent.
The letter puts forth suggestions on how to alter the previous criteria that has been criticized in the media, and also by GOP presidential candidate Dr. Ben Carson.
The letter states:
It is our firm view that Fox News should consider new criteria that would for example:
- Divide the debate into two panels to appear back-to-back, either on the same night or consecutive nights;
- From the top six candidates in public polls, randomly draw three to appear during the first session and three to appear in the second session;
- Randomly draw the remaining candidates and split them evenly between the two panels.
By the end of June, the GOP is expected to have roughly a dozen official candidates. Many see that as a sign of strength.
“It should be embraced as a positive sign of civic engagement and political leadership for the nation,” the letter adds.
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