STATEMENT from New Hampshire
Republican Party Chairman Fergus Cullen
January 5, 2008
"The first-in-the-nation New Hampshire primary serves a national
purpose by giving all candidates an equal opportunity on a level
playing field. Only in New Hampshire do lesser known, lesser funded
underdogs have a fighting chance to establish themselves as national
figures. Consistent with that tradition, we believe all recognized
major candidates should have an equal opportunity to participate in
pre-primary debates and forums.
"This principle applies to tonight's debates on ABC as well as Sunday's
planned forum on FOX. The New Hampshire Republican Party believes
Congressmen Ron Paul and Duncan Hunter should be included in the FOX
forum on Sunday evening. Our mutual efforts to resolve this difference
have failed."
"While we understand that FOX News continues to move forward it is with
regret, the New Hampshire Republican Party hereby withdraws as a
partner in this forum."