Main Navigation

2020 presidential debate bid

The Utah Debate Commission and the U are applying to host a presidential debate in 2020. It is anticipated the Commission on Presidential Debates will announce its host decisions in fall 2019.

Together, the Utah Debate Commission and the University of Utah are applying to host a presidential debate in 2020. It is anticipated the Commission on Presidential Debates will announce its host decisions in fall 2019.

“Utah leaders, the University of Utah, and the UTDC board have shown tremendous support and solidarity to get to this point in the bidding process,” said Thomas Wright, co-chair of the UTDC. “If selected, Utah would have an incredible opportunity to showcase to the world its citizens’ values of volunteerism, hospitality, civil political discourse and community and civic engagement.”

Every four years, the non-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates sponsors and produces the general election debates, which include three presidential debates and one vice presidential debate that are broadcast internationally. If selected, Utah could host one of these events with a future U.S. leader.

“The U is well positioned to provide the necessary resources to host a large-scale event like a presidential debate,” said Jason Perry, vice president of Government Relations at the U. “If we were to be selected, it would offer Utah students a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity.”

Read the full story here.