RNC holds winter meeting in S. Carolina as candidates debate

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Republican party leaders are holding a meeting in South Carolina as GOP presidential hopefuls gather for a debate.

The Republican National Committee's winter meeting gets underway in Charleston on Thursday.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal is set to address a luncheon at the Charleston Place Hotel before a meeting of the RNC's rules committee.

On Friday, the party convenes for a general session before a luncheon with U.S. Sen. Tim Scott.

The candidates seeking the GOP's presidential nomination are taking part in two debates at the North Charleston Performing Arts Center.