I suspect that Trump’s poll numbers will go up if he indeed refuses to attend the FNC debate. His absence will be seen as a display of mastery, as is consistent with someone whose public image is one of strength, aggressiveness, and fearlessness—all in contrast to the passive, fearful, emasculated “leaders” and wannabes currently seeking attention.
Fox said Trump thinks even if he’s president he can pick and choose who covers him. He can. All he has to do is say “That guy does not get a press pass.”