NEW YORK (AP) — Former President Donald Trump’s decision to back out of Fox News Channel’s first GOP primary debate this week likely costs the network a chance at a very large audience for the end of summer. It also tests the network’s ability to pivot again after what’s been a tough year, paying $787 million to settle a defamation lawsuit just as a trial was to begin and firing popular personality Tucker Carlson shortly after the settlement. Fox debate moderators Bill Baier and Martha MacCallum say Trump’s exit will give other candidates the chance to shine. Eight debate participants have been announced by the Republican National Committee.
