"Trump's Controversial Decision: Skipping GOP Debate for Exclusive Tucker Carlson Interview"

Former President Donald Trump plans to skip the first Republican primary debate and instead participate in an online interview with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Trump has criticized Fox and argued that it doesn't make sense to give others a chance to attack him given his lead in national polls. His absence could shift the focus to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, the second-place candidate. Trump's legal troubles, including recent criminal indictments, have not deterred his support among Republicans.