How two of these candidates were able to qualify just boggles the mind.  Then again, we have to reset that old brain muscle memory and remind ourselves this is all grand theatre created to give the illusion of something entirely different.

I mean how does Doug Burgum and Asa Hutchinson have enough support to appear on a GOP debate stage, unless the script writers are working the backroom angles to get them a podium spot.

With President Trump refusing to walk into the trap, according to the RNC statement the eight people who qualify for the Fox News first loser debate are: (1) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, (2) businessperson Vivek Ramaswamy, (3) former Vice President Mike Pence, (4) former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley, (5) Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), (6) former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, (7) North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and (8) former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson.

I’m not sure how many people are planning to tune into the irrelevant debate, let me know if you want an open thread with livestream in the comment section.

Meanwhile in a national poll released today, President Trump continues to extend his insurmountable lead as the support of the American electorate keeps growing.

Inside the FiveThirtyEight (Premise Poll) of registered voters: President Trump leads with 60% of the vote, the next closest candidate is Ron DeSantis with 16%, followed by Ramaswamy at 6%, Pence at 4%, Tim Scott at 3%, Nikki Haley at 3% and Chris Christie at 1%.