Republican debate: Dana Perino says Trump skipping again a missed opportunity

Dana Perino questions Trump's decision to skip the second Republican debate, calling it a missed opportunity.

Dana Perino, one of the moderators of the second Republican debate, has raised concerns about former President Donald Trump's decision to address United Auto Workers union members in Michigan instead of participating in the debate. In an interview with the Washington Examiner, Perino expressed her belief that the debates were a strong point for Trump in the past and that it is a missed opportunity for him not to be present. She also mentioned that voters would appreciate seeing him directly engage with his opponents and explain his policy positions.

The debate, which will be moderated by Fox Business's Stuart Varney and Univision's Ilia Calderon, is scheduled to take place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California. Perino expressed her disappointment that Trump has chosen not to attend the event, stating that she believes everyone would love to have him there. However, she also mentioned her adherence to the Serenity Prayer, emphasizing the importance of not worrying about things that cannot be controlled or changed.

This is not the first time Trump has skipped a debate. He also did not attend the first debate last month. Despite his absence, his popularity among voters has continued to rise, with Republicans expressing their desire to see him participate. Trump's speech to UAW workers will occur just before the second debate. This visit is significant as thousands of UAW workers are currently on strike against major automakers such as General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis in Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio. Trump is actively seeking to gain the support of blue-collar voters, who have become a crucial part of the Republican Party's base.

It is worth noting that Trump employed a similar strategy during the first debate by appearing on an interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson just moments before the event aired. This counterprogramming tactic allows him to engage with his audience while also avoiding direct participation in the debate.

Overall, Perino's remarks highlight the disappointment surrounding Trump's absence from the debate and the missed opportunity for him to showcase his policy positions. However, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact his standing among voters and the overall dynamics of the Republican Party.