The first Republican presidential primary debate, moderated by Fox anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum, will take place on August 23 at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.

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The much-awaited Republican presidential primary debate is just around the corner, and it will be held at the same venue as the Republican National Convention in 2024. Hosted by Fox News, the event promises to offer a crucial insight into the potential candidates vying for the 2024 presidential election. Here’s everything you need to know to catch the action.

Where to watch?

Debate moderator Bret Baier, known for his chief political anchor role and hosting “Special Report with Bret Baier,” has considerable experience in debate coverage, having moderated multiple face-offs between prominent senators. Martha MacCallum, the host of “The Story with Martha MacCallum,” joined Fox in 2004 and has also played a significant role in the network’s election coverage.

When to watch?

The debate will kick off at 9 p.m. EST on August 23 and will run until 11 p.m. EST, allowing viewers across the nation to witness the candidates’ perspectives on critical issues.

Guest list:

The guest list for the debate stage is yet to be determined. The Republican National Committee (RNC) has established stringent requirements that all GOP candidates must meet to qualify for a spot on the stage. These criteria entail obtaining donations from a minimum of 40,000 national contributors and maintaining a consistent polling performance above 1 percent in various national and state polls. Additionally, candidates are obligated to secure donations from at least 200 distinct donors in 20 or more states and territories. Only those candidates who fulfill these strict requirements will be eligible to participate in the debates.

While these requirements may prove challenging for some long-shot candidates, they have also sparked controversy due to the RNC’s additional condition — a pledge to support the eventual Republican presidential nominee, regardless of the nominee’s identity. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson have requested the RNC to waive this requirement, citing concerns over former President Donald Trump’s recent federal indictment, which they believe renders him unfit to be the party’s nominee.

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Candidates have until August 21, which is just 48 hours before the debate, to meet the criteria and qualify for participation. However, polls conducted before July 1 will not be considered for qualification, which means candidates have limited time to meet the stringent benchmarks set by the Republican National Committee (RNC).

Although the first debate is confirmed, there remains a possibility of a second debate, especially with a crowded GOP field and potential candidates still considering entering the race. The RNC mentioned the possibility of a second debate on August 24, but Fox News has not provided any official information on plans for a follow-up debate.

The event will provide a platform for candidates to address pressing issues, present their policies, and differentiate themselves as they compete for the Republican nomination in the 2024 election. Viewers can catch the debate live on Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network or through the online livestream on FoxNews.com and Fox Nation, as the nation takes a step closer to determining its future leadership.