Requirements toughen for candidates to qualify for the GOP presidential debate next month in Alabama

By MEG KINNARD
Associated Press

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A fourth Republican presidential debate has been set for next month, with heightened polling requirements that could make the stage less crowded than before. The Republican National Committee say it’s partnering with NewsNation, The Megyn Kelly Show on SiriusXM and the Washington Free Beacon for the fourth debate, on Dec. 6 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Candidates must garner at least 6% in two approved national polls, or 6% in one poll from two separate early-voting states. Participants also need to amass at least 80,000 unique donors. The RNC has increased markers with each debate, an effort intended to winnow the once sprawling field.