RFK Jr. fails to qualify for first presidential debate

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. did not qualify for the first presidential debate set for next week, CNN said Thursday.

Why it matters: Qualifying for the network's debate would have given the independent candidate a national platform to propel his long-shot presidential bid.

The last independent candidate to make the presidential debate stage was Ross Perot in 1992.

Driving the news: To qualify for the June 27 presidential debate, candidates had to hit at least 15% in four national polls that meet CNN's standards, and achieve ballot access in enough states to have a chance at winning 270 electoral votes....