JONESBORO, Ark. — Arkansas State University’s ASU-TV will host a series of three political debates in October, providing students an active role in connecting voters with candidates vying for state and federal office.
The debates are scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1; Thursday, Oct. 8; and Thursday, Oct. 22, and will focus on key races affecting Arkansas voters.
The first debate on Oct. 1 will feature the Arkansas House District 36 race, with Democratic challenger Shamal Carter confirmed to attend. Republican Rep. Johnny Rye, the incumbent, has been invited but has not yet confirmed his participation.
On Oct. 8, the debate will shift to the U.S. House District 1 race. Democratic candidate Terri Yarbrough Green and Libertarian candidate Steve Parsons have confirmed their attendance. Republican incumbent Rep. Rick Crawford will not participate.
The final debate on Oct. 22 will turn attention to the U.S. Senate race. Democratic challenger Hallie Shoffner and Libertarian candidate Jeff Wadlin will join the discussion, though Republican incumbent Sen. Tom Cotton will not attend.
Panelists for the debates include Allie Carson, editor-in-chief of *The Herald*; Samantha Mitchell, KASU news director; Lexie Burns, KASU reporter; LaGanzie Kale, general manager of KLEK; and Levi Seward, president of the A-State Pre-Law Club. Marty Scarbrough, KASU program director, will moderate on Oct. 1 and Oct. 22, while Johnathan Reaves, an instructor of mass communication and the debates’ producer, will moderate on Oct. 8.
“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.
ASU-TV’s coverage of the debates reflects a significant educational opportunity for A-State students, particularly those working to produce the events. Video Two students, led by professor Galen Perkins, will take on key organizational and production roles.
“I am excited to see our students play such a vital role in bringing these debates to the viewers,” Reaves said. “There is no better classroom than working on a broadcast that directly serves the community and helps inform voters.”
The debates will be open to the public with limited seating, and they will also be broadcast widely. Viewers can tune in through ASU-TV, KASU Public Radio, Red Wolf Radio and KLEK-FM. Additionally, the debates will stream on ASU-TV’s YouTube and social media channels.
For more information on the debates, visit Arkansas State University’s official media platforms.