Former President Donald Trump is signaling he may not do any main election debates — plural — after he skips the primary debate on Wednesday in Milwaukee.

Mr. Trump, writing on Truth Social, pointed to his “legendary” ballot numbers, together with an almost 50-point lead over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Republican thought-about his most vital risk within the 2024 presidential main.

“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,” Mr. Trump wrote late Sunday. “I WILL THEREFORE NOT BE DOING THE DEBATES!”

For weeks, Mr. Trump signaled he didn't wish to do the primary debate. He says he would face bias from moderators and unnecessarily danger his front-runner standing.

He plans to counter-program the primary debate by sitting for an interview with conservative host Tucker Carlson.

Mr. Trump additionally doesn't wish to signal a loyalty pledge from the Republican National Committee that claims candidates should vow to help the eventual nominee in the event that they want to take part in debates.

Mr. Trump is unpredictable, and he would possibly change his thoughts. But the most recent feedback counsel his boycott will prolong to the second debate in California on Sept. 27 and past.

GOP rivals say he's being a hen and should debate in entrance of the American folks if he needs to return to the White House.

Candidates hoping for a breakout second on Wednesday will embrace Mr. DeSantis, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former Vice President Mike Pence, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson.

Mr. Hutchinson mentioned Sunday he certified for the talk stage and can signal the loyalty pledge, regardless of his staunch opposition to Mr. Trump.

“I’m confident that Donald Trump is not going to be the nominee of the party, and I’ve always supported the nominee,” he informed CNN’s “State of the Union.” “I’m going to sign the pledge and be on there.”

• Ramsey Touchberry contributed to this report.

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