Here Are the 8 Candidates Who Will Participate in the First Republican Presidential Debate

Former President Donald Trump met the criteria but has declined to take part in the event.

(Top L–R) Republican presidential candidates Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy. (Bottom L–R) Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Vice President Mike Pence, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. AP Photo

The first Republican primary debate will feature eight candidates, the Republican National Committee (RNC) says.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence are among the candidates who met the criteria to participate, according to the committee.