Former Vice President Mike Pence made a significant announcement on Friday regarding his advocacy for a national 15-week abortion ban at the upcoming Republican presidential primary debate. As Pence, who is vying for the GOP nomination in the 2024 presidential election, expressed his intention to challenge former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who do not support national abortion restrictions. Pence criticized their stance, emphasizing the need to advance protections for the right to life at the national level.

During a campaign visit to the Iowa State Fair, Pence participated in a "Fair-Side Chat" with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. He commended Reynolds for her accomplishments as governor and expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to answer her questions. Pence highlighted 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 eagerly await participating in Reynolds' fair side chats, former President Trump has declined the invitation. Pence criticized Trump's decision, viewing it as a missed opportunity to connect with the people of Iowa. Despite Trump's previous criticism of Reynolds for remaining neutral in the GOP nomination race, 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 his intention 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 qualification.

Among the candidates who have qualified for the debate are Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, and Doug Burgum. However, despite meeting the requirements, Trump and Chris Christie have not yet signed the pledge. The debate, hosted by Fox News, is scheduled to take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 23. This event holds significant importance as the candidates strive to differentiate themselves and gain support from voters in the early stages of the primary race. The debate will provide an opportunity for the Republican candidates to present their platforms and engage in discussions on various issues, including abortion.