Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO – Arkansas State University’s ASU-TV will host three political debates in October for candidates vying for office.

The debates will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1; Thursday, Oct. 8; and Thursday, Oct. 22.

The Oct. 1 debate will focus on the Arkansas House District 36 race between Republican Rep. Johnny Rye and Democratic challenger Shamal Carter. Rye was invited, but they have not confirmed if they will attend. Carter has confirmed that he will be present at the debate.

The Oct. 8 debate will highlight the U.S. House District 1 race between Republican incumbent Rick Crawford, Democratic candidate Dr. Terri Yarbrough Green, and Libertarian candidate Dr. Steve Parsons. Crawford will not attend, but Green and Parsons will be present.

The Oct. 22 debate will focus on the U.S. Senate race between Republican incumbent Sen. Tom Cotton, Democratic challenger Hallie Shoffner, and Libertarian candidate Jeff Wadlin. Cotton will not be present, but Shoffner and Wadlin will attend.

“We are excited to air these three political debates because they help connect voters with the candidates seeking to represent them. Meaningful debates are essential, as they allow the public to compare ideas, hear differing perspectives and make informed decisions at the ballot box,” said Johnathan Reaves, instructor of mass communication, who will also serve as producer. 

Panelists for the debates include Allie Carson, editor-in-chief of The Herald; Lexie Burns, KASU reporter; LaGanzie Kale, KLEK general manager; Samantha Mitchell, KASU news director; and Levi Seward, A-State Pre-Law Club president.

Marty Scarbrough, KASU program director, will serve as moderator for the Oct. 1 and Oct. 22 debates. Reaves will moderate the Oct. 8 debate. Students in instructor Galen Perkins’ Video Production Two class will organize the programs.

“I am excited to see our students play such a vital role in bringing these debates to the viewers. Not only is this an invaluable learning opportunity, but it also gives them valuable real-world experience in live television production while contributing to an important civic event. There is no better classroom than working on a broadcast that directly serves the community and helps inform voters,” Reaves added.

The debates will air on ASU-TV, KASU Public Radio at A-State, Red Wolf Radio, and KLEK-FM. They will also be available on ASU-TV’s YouTube channel and social media channels.