RNC debate plan draws concern by some

WASHINGTON, April 4 (UPI) -- Three possible Republican U.S. presidential candidates voiced concern about the Republican National Committee's plan to sanction a series of primary debates.

Aides to the candidates say the plan under which the RNC would determine the format and moderators for approved monthly debates would remove too much power from the candidates' hands and add more engagements to an already crowded debate calendar, Politico reported.

"This is a matter that should be left to the campaigns," an aide to one likely hopeful told Politico in an interview published Sunday. "The RNC should be focused on Democrats and [President] Obama. The ownership over this belongs to the campaigns. We can work with one another to come to an agreement."

An adviser to another probable candidate said the RNC proposal "well-intentioned" but "misguided." A representative for a third potential campaigner said the move would "contradict the idea of having less debates."

As part of its plan outlined in a memo sent to campaigns Friday by RNC debate committee chairman James Bopp, the party would require each candidate agreeing to participate in the sanctioned debates to raise money for the debt-riddled RNC at events held in conjunction with the forums.

Sean Spicer, RNC communications director, indicated the committee welcomed the response and wanted to work with the campaigns.

"The reason we're going through this process is to get our candidates' feedback on what would make for the most successful outcome of the primary season," Spicer told Politico.