Next week's prime-time Republican U.S. presidential debate will feature fewer candidates than previous debates – eight instead of 10.
The eight on the Fox Business Network's main stage will be billionaire businessman Donald Trump, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, former Hewlett Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, Ohio Governor John Kasich and Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky.
Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who have both been on the main stage in the first three debates, have been bumped to the so-called "undercard" debate.
In order to qualify for the prime-time debates, the candidates needed an average of at least 2.5 percent support in the four most recent national polls through November 4, while the undercard candidates had to score at least 1 percent in any of the four most recent polls.
Christie and Huckabee will share the stage with Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and former Senator Rick Santorum.
Shortly after the announcement of the lineup, Christie Tweeted "It doesn't matter the stage, give me a podium and I'll be there to talk about real issues."
Later, Huckabee also tweeted, "I'm happy to debate anyone, anywhere, anytime."
Two candidates who previously appeared on the undercard debate – South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham and former New York Governor George Pataki – did not qualify for either debate this time.
