Why Is Dan Maes Allowed To Debate?

A new poll out in Colorado shows Dan Maes getting only 5% of the vote.

Why is he allowed on stage to debate Hickenlooper and Tancredo? Just because he is a Republican? If the guy were a Libertarian, a Greenie, a Reform Party guy, etc. he would be seen as illegitimate with 5% in the polls.

Why is CBS4 giving him a platform when he doesn't even have a political pulse?

Having an "R" next to his name is meaningless at this late date.