The first Republican National Committee primary debate took place Wednesday night without former President Donald Trump, who instead opted for an interview with Tucker Carlson. All six candidates present at the debate answered affirmatively when asked if they would support Trump if he were to become the party's nominee, even if he were a convicted felon. Trump's absence from the debate is a sign of his influence in the Republican Party, and the loyalty of his supporters, and it remains to be seen if he will participate in future debates.