Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. failed to qualify for CNN's debate in Atlanta on June 27, 2024, falling short of the network's requirements for state ballot qualification and necessary polling. The debate will now feature Democratic President Joe Biden and presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump.
According to CNN's criteria, candidates were required to secure a place on the ballot in states totaling at least 270 votes in the Electoral College and reach a polling threshold of 15% in four reliable national polls by June 20. Both Biden and Trump have easily met these requirements.
Kennedy's campaign says he has satisfied the requirements to appear on the ballot in 22 states, with a combined total of 310 electoral votes, though not all have confirmed his name will be listed. California, which holds the largest number of electoral votes at 54, will not certify any candidates until Aug. 29.
CNN has stated that Kennedy has received at least 15% in three qualifying polls and is currently on the ballot in six states, making him eligible for 89 Electoral College votes.
Kennedy's campaign filed an election complaint alleging CNN is colluding with Biden and Trump to exclude him from the debate, claiming that he is being held to a higher standard. CNN has dismissed the complaint as without merit.
Both Biden and Trump have agreed to appear at podiums during the debate, with microphones muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.
