Former Vice President Mike Pence announced on Friday that he will be advocating for a national 15-week abortion ban at the upcoming Republican presidential primary debate. Pence, who is seeking the GOP nomination for the 2024 presidential election, expressed his intention to confront former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for not supporting national abortion restrictions. He criticized their stance, stating that it is important to advance protections for the right to life at the national level. Pence also highlighted the Supreme Court's recent decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which ended federal protections for abortion.

Pence made these comments during a campaign visit to the Iowa State Fair, where he participated in a "Fair-Side Chat" with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. Pence commended Reynolds for her accomplishments as governor and expressed his excitement for the opportunity to answer her questions. He emphasized the significance of engaging with voters in Iowa, a state known for its influential role in the presidential nominating process.

While Pence and other Republican candidates are eager to participate in Reynolds' fair side chats, former President Trump has declined the invitation. Pence criticized Trump's decision, noting that it is a missed opportunity to connect with the people of Iowa. Trump had previously criticized Reynolds for remaining neutral in the GOP nomination race, but Pence praised her as a respected and well-loved Republican in the state.

In other news related to the GOP primary debate, Senator Tim Scott announced that he has signed the Republican National Committee's pledge to support the party's eventual nominee in 2024. Pence also stated that he intends to sign the pledge, ensuring his participation in the first presidential primary debate. Both Scott and Pence have already met the RNC's fundraising and polling requirements for qualifying for the debate. Other candidates who have qualified include Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, and Doug Burgum. However, Trump and Chris Christie, though meeting the requirements, have not yet signed the pledge.

The debate, hosted by Fox News, is scheduled to take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 23. It will provide an opportunity for the Republican candidates to present their platforms and engage in discussions on various issues, including abortion. The debate holds significant importance as the candidates strive to differentiate themselves and gain support from voters in the early stages of the primary race.