Bay News 9, along with our partners at the Tampa Bay Times and FPBS and its member stations, will present a debate of the Republican candidates for U.S. Senate.
This high profile race includes U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, former U.S. Senator George LeMieux, Col. Mike McCalister and former congressman Dave Weldon. The winner of the August 14 primary will go against U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (D) in the November general election.
“Bright House Networks is thrilled to partner with Florida PBS and Tampa Bay Times to bring this primary debate to people throughout the state of Florida,” said Rod Gramer, Bay News 9 vice president and general manager at Bright House Networks. “This is gearing up to be one of the most important election years to date, and it is exciting to offer this in-depth coverage to interested viewers.”
The event, scheduled for July 26, will air live on Bay News 9 from St. Petersburg College's Palladium Theater.
Bay News 9 and the Times partner on the weekly political program, Political Connections, hosted by Bay News 9's Al Ruechel and Tampa Bay Times Political Editor Adam Smith, and have joined forces for two other debates recently - during the Tampa and St. Petersburg Mayor's races. Ruechel and Smith will moderate the US Senate debate as well.
"For as long as I can remember, the Tampa Bay Times has been sponsoring debates in campaigns for every office from City Hall to Capitol Hill, and I am delighted we are extending our series this year in the U.S. Senate race,” said Paul Tash, Times chairman and CEO. “Debates give voters a good chance to look over the candidates for themselves."
The debate will also be available on Bay News 9's Orlando partner, Central Florida News 13, and online at tampabay.com and fpbs.org. Following the conclusion of the event, it can be seen on Bay News 9 On Demand, Channel 342, on Bright House cable.
“Our stations are excited to partner with the Tampa Bay Times and Bay News 9 to deliver this public service to our state,” said Janyth Righter, executive director of FPBS. “As the largest broadcast network in Florida, we are able to reach the majority of citizens in Florida to bring them this exclusive coverage.”
Candidates who have at least 5 percent support in a statewide poll of Florida voters will be invited to participate in the hourlong primetime debate
Free tickets to the debate will be available to the public at the Palladium box office in early July.
Bay News 9 is an exclusive service of Bright House Networks.