The primary race to determine which Republican will secure the party's nomination continues to play out.

So far, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley are viewed as the rising contenders. Reports in recent weeks have also signaled that DeSantis and Haley are finding themselves in increasing competition with one another.

On Wednesday, November 8, Republicans are set to gather for the third presidential debate. However, on this go-around, things will be a little different than before.

What to expect during the next GOP presidential debate

In less than two weeks, NBC News hosts Kristen Welker and Lester Holt will moderate the upcoming debate, along with Salem Radio Network host Hugh Hewitt.

Republicans will gather in Miami for two hours, starting at 8 p.m. During this time, contenders who qualify for the debate will face questions about the economy, the Israel-Hamas war, Joe Biden, and other pressing issues in the United States.

Seeing as former President Trump skipped the first two debates, it seems unlikely he will make an appearance on the 8th of next month. However, qualifying Republicans with plans to show up include DeSantis and Haley, along with former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy.

November 6 stands as the deadline for the remaining GOP contenders to meet the necessary benchmarks to appear on the debate stage.

Narrowing down the field

Some Republicans have expressed concerns that having too many contenders running for the GOP nomination can actually work against the party.

Those in the Republican Party who oppose Trump likewise feel that too many candidates will split up the anti-Trump conservative vote. A divide like this would inherently increase the likelihood of Trump winning the GOP nomination.

Polls, thus far, show that in a hypothetical race pitting DeSantis against Trump, the former is more competitive against the latter with fewer other contenders in the race.

At this point, just about anything remains possible. Time will tell what comes from the third GOP primary debate and who remains in the race. In the meantime, Americans everywhere will continue to wait and see how it all plays out.