How do primary debates work in a presidential race?
Primary debates feature candidates from the same party competing for the nomination. Parties and networks set thresholds - typically polling and fundraising minimums - for candidates to qualify.
Presidential primary debates bring together the major candidates competing for a single party's nomination on the same stage. Unlike general election debates (which pit the nominees of different parties against each other), primary debates feature ideological allies with competing visions for their party's direction.
Primary debates are organized by the national party committees, in partnership with television networks. To qualify for a debate stage, candidates must typically clear thresholds on both polling (appearing at or above a minimum percentage in approved polls) and fundraising (demonstrating a minimum number of unique donors).
Debate rules, formats, and thresholds change each cycle. The Republican Party in 2023-24 organized a series of primary debates that the frontrunner (Donald Trump) chose not to attend, illustrating that debate participation is voluntary. The Democratic Party in 2024 chose not to hold primary debates while supporting an incumbent.
For 2028, primary debate schedules and formats will be announced by the parties and networks as the field of candidates becomes clear, most likely in 2027. The threshold requirements will be shaped by how many candidates are running and the competitive dynamics of the field.
Related questions
Are candidates required to attend primary debates?
How are debate moderators chosen?
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Related explainers
The 2028 presidential debate schedule has not been set. Debates are organized by a non-governmental commission or by agreement between candidates and networks; no 2028 dates or formats have been announced.
Primary voters choose delegates who will represent them at the party's national convention. The candidate who wins enough delegates - typically a majority - becomes the party's nominee.
Presidential nominees are chosen by their party's national convention, based on delegates won in state primaries and caucuses. The person who wins a majority of delegates becomes the official nominee.
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