Primary Debates and Forums
Iowa GOP/FOX News Debate

screen grab
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at the Sioux City Convention Center in Sioux City, IA
from 9:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. ET (8:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. CST local time).  1, 2

Sponsors:  FOX News in conjunction with the Republican Party of Iowa.

Candidates:  Rep. Michele Bachmann, former Speaker Newt Gingrich, former Gov. Jon Huntsman, Rep. Ron Paul, Gov. Rick Perry, former Gov. Mitt Romney, and former Sen. Rick Santorum.

Moderator:  Special Report anchor Bret Baier, with Megyn Kelly, Neil Cavuto and Chris Wallace.

Audience:  The Republican Party of Iowa sold tickets: $50 (bronze) for two general admission tickets; $100 (silver) for two premium seating tickets; $1,500 (gold) for 5 VIP tickets and an invitation to a special pre-debate dinner with Chairman Matt Strawn and special guests.

Broadcast:  FOX News Channel (FNC) and live-streamed on YouTube.com/FOXNews, in addition to FOX News Radio, FOX News Mobile, and FOXNews.com.

Format:  One-minute responses, 30 seconds for follow ups.  Bell like sound when candidates go on too long.

Overview:  This debate came less than three weeks before the January 3 Iowa caucuses and was the last debate before the caucuses.  Gingrich, the most recent "alternative to Romney" continued to endure attacks.  Romney achieved another solid performance, solidifying his position as the frontrunner.


Notes: