The Republican Party has announced that CNN and ABC News will host two important debates leading up to the 2020 Presidential election, both of which will take place in Iowa and New Hampshire. This is the first step in the party’s attempt to prepare for what is sure to be a contentious primary election season.
CNN and ABC News will broadcast the Iowa-based debate on January 28, 2020. Those candidates ranked in the top six in opinion polls will participate. That same lineup of candidates has also been invited to the New Hampshire-based debate, which is scheduled to take place on February 7.
The debates are significant for the Republican Party and could be seen as a sign of its confidence heading into the 2020 election cycle. The first Democratic Primary debate kicked off in June and the party has made plans to hold nine debates in total ahead of the nomination process in July. Since the Republican debates begin much later, it can be seen as the party’s way of establishing its own place in the election cycle.
This will not be the first time that CNN and ABC have partnered with the Republican Party to host debates. From 2007 to 2011, both networks worked with three other media outlets to organize more than a dozen debates for GOP candidates.
The 2020 debates will play an even more crucial role than in the past. With multiple Democratic candidates currently vying to become the party’s nominee and the general election fast approaching, many believe that the GOP must be ready to combat any challenges that may come its way.
By hosting debates in Iowa and New Hampshire, the Republican Party will give its candidates the opportunity to address issues and challenges faced by voters in these vital states. The state of Iowa is well-known as the first state to hold its Presidential caucuses, a critical moment in the election process, and the debates are likely to set the tone for the months ahead.
While the party has yet to name moderators for the debates, there is no doubt that they will serve as an important precursor to the primary election season. The debates will help to shape the conversation not only within the Republican Party, but also nationwide, as voters gear up for the 2020 elections.