When four of the top Republican presidential candidates take the stage in Tuscaloosa, Ala., tonight, they will once more do so in the shadow of the candidate not there.

Former President Donald Trump is skipping the debate, as he has the first three times it’s been held. But his presence will undoubtedly be felt by those watching and attending the forum at the University of Alabama. That’s not because of his prodigious and persistent lead in the polls but because of comments he offered the night before.

Appearing at a town hall with Fox News’ Sean Hannity on Tuesday, Trump was pressed on whether he would, as his critics have warned, act like a dictator should he re-enter office. “Except for Day One,” he replied.

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