Republicans to Hold Fewer Primary Debates This Time Around

Fox News will hold the first debate in Ohio, one of the swingiest swing states for 2016.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the Republican National Committee, raises a gavel as he calls the Republican National Convention (RNC) to order in Tampa, Florida on Aug. 27, 2012.

Daniel Acker/Bloomberg
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CORONADO, Calif.—Republicans will hold at least nine presidential primary debates, and as many as 12, according to a calendar released by the party on Friday.

The party's calendar did not include specific dates or locations, though Fox News will hold the first debate in August. It would take place in Ohio, and potentially in Cleveland, where Republicans plan to hold their national convention next year. There are also three pending debates in March.