Belmont University will host a televised debate on June 25 where the leading candidates for Nashville mayor are set to participate.
The Tennessean and NewsChannel 5 are also co-hosting the debate ahead of the Aug. 1 election. Belmont and the two news organizations have a long track record of hosting successful debates, forums and public policy discussions.
With the future of Nashville at stake, the debate is part of a commitment to provide voters with robust news and information and a discussion of the important issues facing the city.
“Belmont always seeks to be an engaged member of this community, bringing people together to talk about issues, whether it’s a mayoral, gubernatorial or even a presidential debate,” Belmont President Dr. Bob Fisher said. “This city’s course directly impacts our alumni and campus community, and we want to do our part to help educate voters in a race that determines Nashville’s future while also modeling active citizenship for our students.”
The debate will take place at 6 p.m. at Belmont’s McAfee Concert Hall. It will air live in its entirety on NewsChannel 5 and streamed on NewsChannel5.com and Tennessean.com.
“We believe voters deserve to know as much as they can about our city’s candidates for mayor,” said Michael A. Anastasi, editor of The Tennessean and vice president of news for the USA TODAY Network – Tennessee. “Nashville is facing unprecedented growth, questions on how to fund quality education and the best ways to provide more affordable housing. Before they head to the polls, voters deserve to know how the next mayor plans to address these and other issues.”
NewsChannel 5 News Director Sandy Boonstra said the news organization is “excited to once again be partnering with the Tennessean and Belmont University.”
“It is vital for voters to have as many opportunities as possible to make an informed decision before going to the polls,” Boonstra said. “This debate will serve an invaluable role in supplying that information.”
The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are required, and are available through Belmont University at belmont.edu/mayoraldebate.
May 31, 2019 Update–SOLD OUT: All available tickets for the June 25 mayoral debate at Belmont University have been reserved.
