Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has expressed his support for former President Donald Trump's decision to potentially skip the first few primary debates.
Ramaswamy, who had previously stated his expectation to see Trump on the debate stage, now says he has "no problem" with Trump's absence.
"This is my chance to introduce myself to the country, so I have no issue with whatever decision he wants to make," Ramaswamy said. "If he's on there, great. If not, I'm fine with that."
Ramaswamy's recent comments have drawn attention from the media, with one reporter on X, formerly known as Twitter, sharing a clip from May where Ramaswamy expressed his expectation to see Trump at the debates.
In the clip, Ramaswamy stated, "It is my expectation Trump will be there because as I've known him he's not a man that I know of to be afraid. He's not somebody who's made a habit of himself to be a coward. But if he doesn't show up on that debate stage, that will be the best proof that the Donald Trump of today is not the same Donald Trump as in 2016."
However, Ramaswamy's campaign has clarified that his recent comments are not a departure from his previous statement. According to communications director Tricia McLaughlin, "This is not the only debate."
Ramaswamy reiterated his support for Trump's decision during an appearance on "Fox News Live," stating that he is "OK" with Trump skipping the first few debates.
As of now, Trump has not confirmed whether he will be participating in the first GOP debate hosted by Fox News in Milwaukee on Wednesday. The Republican National Committee, which organizes all the presidential primary debates, requires candidates to sign a pledge to support the eventual GOP nominee and not to participate in any unsanctioned debates. Trump has refused to sign the pledge, citing concerns about supporting certain individuals for President.
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