JONESBORO, Ark. – Arkansas State University’s ASU-TV will host three political debates in October, offering a forum for candidates running in state and federal races to discuss their platforms and engage with voters.
The debates will take place on three consecutive Thursdays: Oct. 1, Oct. 8, and Oct. 22, each beginning at 6 p.m.
The first debate, on Oct. 1, will focus on the Arkansas House District 36 race between Republican Rep. Johnny Rye and Democratic challenger Shamal Carter. According to organizers, Carter has confirmed his participation, though it remains unclear whether Rye will attend.
The second debate, scheduled for Oct. 8, will highlight the U.S. House District 1 race. Democratic candidate Dr. Terri Yarbrough Green and Libertarian candidate Dr. Steve Parsons have confirmed their presence, but Republican incumbent Rick Crawford will not participate.
The final debate, on Oct. 22, will cover the U.S. Senate race. Democratic challenger Hallie Shoffner and Libertarian candidate Jeff Wadlin are slated to attend, while Republican incumbent Sen. Tom Cotton has declined to appear.
Johnathan Reaves, an instructor of mass communication at A-State and the debates’ producer, emphasized the importance of connecting voters with candidates. “Meaningful debates are essential, as they allow the public to compare ideas, hear differing perspectives, and make informed decisions at the ballot box,” Reaves said.
A panel of local journalists, community leaders, and students will ask questions during the debates. Panelists include Allie Carson, editor-in-chief of The Herald; Lexie Burns, KASU reporter; LaGanzie Kale, general manager of KLEK; Samantha Mitchell, KASU news director; and Levi Seward, president of A-State’s Pre-Law Club.
Marty Scarbrough, program director of KASU, is set to moderate the debates on Oct. 1 and Oct. 22, while Reaves will serve as moderator on Oct. 8. Students from professor Galen Perkins’ advanced video production course play a key role in organizing and producing the events, offering them hands-on experience in live television production.
“All are welcome to attend, but seating is limited for public attendees,” Reaves added. The debates will be broadcast live on ASU-TV, KASU Public Radio, Red Wolf Radio, and KLEK-FM. They will also stream on ASU-TV’s YouTube and social media channels.
These debates provide an opportunity for the public to learn about key issues and the candidates’ positions ahead of the upcoming elections.