And Now, 2012 GOP Presidential Hopefuls, Meet Your Debate Moderator: Donald Trump

The line between politics and reality TV just blurred even further: Donald Trump announced Friday he will be moderating a Republican presidential debate, grilling those who would like to hear the TV star’s signature line – “You’re hired” – for the highest office in the land.

Our Jonathan Lemire reports:

Trump, who flirted with his own bid for the White House, will pair up with the conservative news outlet Newsmax to host the debate in Iowa later this month. It will air on the Ion Network.

The forum, to be held in Des Moines on Dec. 27, should further cement Trump’s powerful role as a GOP kingmaker.

Several Presidential contenders – including Mitt Romney, Rick Perry and Michele Bachmann – all met with Trump in Manhattan to seek the real estate mogul’s advice and support.

And Newt Gingrich, who has soared to the top of most national GOP polls, is set to sit down with The Donald at the Trump Tower Monday.

The publicity-hungry developer, who also met with Sarah Palin when she was mulling a White House bid, is expected to endorse a GOP candidate during the primary season.

His blessing could be a boost, as Trump – the host of the reality show “Celebrity Apprentice” – has become a popular draw on the conservative speaking circuit.

It was not announced Friday which candidates would be appearing on the debate — set for just a week before the Iowa caucuses.

Unlike other recent debates that focused on just one topic, this one is scheduled to be an open discussion.

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