NOTE: Earlier this month Bay News 9 announced it would cohost a live debate for major candidates in the St. Petersburg mayoral election. Our original intent was to allow for general admission to that forum. Since then security concerns have made it necessary to change that format to an invitation only event. Doing so will better ensure a safe venue and a quality program. Bay News 9 will still bring that debate to you live on July 25 at 7 p.m.
PREVIOUS STORY: Bay News 9 and the Tampa Bay Times will present a live debate between candidates for St. Petersburg mayor on July 25 at 7 p.m.
The event will be held at The Palladium Theater on 5th Avenue.
- Debate will take place July 25, air on Bay News 9
- Holly Gregory, Adam Smith to serve as panelists
- RELATED: Candidates seek African-American vote
Current mayor Rick Kriseman and former mayor Rick Baker have qualified for the debate, which is based on fundraising totals.
Kriseman is seeking his second term, and Baker served two terms as mayor. The two will debate at the Palladium in downtown St. Petersburg, facing panelists Adam Smith, political editor for the Tampa Bay Times and Holly Gregory, Bay News 9 anchor.
The one-hour debate will feature questions from a variety of platforms including social media and voter video questions. In the coming days, we'll let you know how you can submit your question.
The debate format will focus on issues that each candidate may deal with should they win office. Responses will be either be one minute or 30 seconds depending on the topic.
We'll post more details about the debate as they become available, but make plans now to join us on July 25 at 7 p.m. on Bay News 9!