Statement from Francis Suarez:
“Throughout the debate verification process, my team was in touch with the RNC as we worked towards meeting the qualifications for the first debate.
On Thursday afternoon, in consultation with the RNC, we believed the polling requirement would be met by two polls that were yet to be reported.
On Monday night, we learned that a Cygnal poll would not be counted due to its affiliation with Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign, despite multiple published reports confirming the poll was not paid for by any campaign. Two polls were certified by the RNC - Kaplan and Morning Consult (Aug 11-13) - however, we believed an equivalent Morning Consult poll (July 1-3) showing me at over 1% would certainly be certified.
I am sorry that this debate will not include my perspectives from the largest growing voting block in our country - young, conservative Hispanics. Additionally, Republicans will not be able to hear my story of how conservative principles of keeping taxes low, keeping people safe and focusing on creating prosperity for all created the most successful big city in America.
I respect the rules and process set forth by the RNC, and I look forward to working with my party to ensure we win back the White House and restore the path to a brighter future for our country.”
