From wikipedia:
With the other candidates (besides Bush and Reagan) in single digits, the Nashua Telegraph offered to host a debate between Reagan and Bush. Worried that a newspaper-sponsored debate might violate electoral regulations, Reagan subsequently arranged to fund the event with his own campaign money, inviting the other candidates to participate at short notice. The Bush camp did not learn of Reagan’s decision to include the other candidates until the debate was due to commence. Bush refused to participate, which led to an impasse on the stage. As Reagan attempted to explain his decision, the editor of the Nashua Telegraph ordered the sound man to mute Reagan’s microphone. A visibly angry Reagan responded “I am paying for this microphone, Mr. Green!” (the editor’s name was in fact Jon Breen).[1][2] Eventually the other candidates agreed to leave, and the debate proceeded between Reagan and Bush. Reagan’s quote was often repeated as “I paid for this microphone!” and dominated news coverage of the event; Bush did not make an impact with the voters.
Thank you for sharing. Good day, Vermonter.