Republican presidential nominee Donald TrumpDonald TrumpTop aide: Trump 'remarkably consistent' on illegal immigration New York Times sees 'ethical imperative’ for Clinton to cut foundation ties Reid requests FBI probe into Russia 'tampering' in U.S. election MORE is declining calls to take part in mock debates ahead of the first presidential debate next month, The New York Times reported.
“It can be dangerous. You can sound scripted or phony — like you’re trying to be someone you’re not.”
“I know who I am, and it got me here,” Trump told the Times.
“I don’t want to present a false front. I mean, it’s possible we’ll do a mock debate, but I don’t see a real need.”
Conservative radio host Laura Ingraham was reportedly ready to play Democratic nominee Hillary ClintonHillary Rodham ClintonTop aide: Trump 'remarkably consistent' on illegal immigration New York Times sees 'ethical imperative’ for Clinton to cut foundation ties Trump resisting calls for mock debates MORE in a mock debate during Trump's first preparation session on Aug. 21, but Trump declined.
During that session, held at Trump's club in Bedminster, N.J., Trump asked several questions about debate topics, Clinton's skills and potential moderators.
Former Fox News chairman Roger Ailes was reportedly present at that session and at another held in the same location.
Trump told the Times he knows "how to handle" Clinton and said the debates will not be judged based on policy points but on boldness and leadership — an area in which he believes he has an advantage.