Debates are an excellent way to stay informed on key issues, candidates, and differing perspectives!

Debates provide a platform for understanding different viewpoints and how leaders respond to pressing challenges. By tuning in and paying attention to how candidates present their ideas, you sharpen your own ability to evaluate leadership qualities and policy proposals.

Watching a debate also offers opportunities for reflection — how do the issues discussed resonate with your own values and concerns? 

Upcoming Debate Schedule:

Vice Presidential Debate

• Democratic Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota and Republican Senator JD Vance of Ohio
• Moderated by CBS News
• October 1, 2024
• Starts at 6 pm pacific time
• Broadcast on the CBS Television Network and live streamed on all platforms where CBS News 24/7 and Paramount+ are available.
• Links to the broadcast will be added once available

Seattle Debates

• Washington State Debate Coalition

Past Debates:

2024 Presidential Debate from ABC News

Washington Gubernatorial Debate | September 18, 2024

Seattle City Council Debate | September 18, 2024

Debate Watch Activities with Close Up’s 2024 Election Toolkit

Engage critically, reflect thoughtfully, and help shape an informed electorate!

The resources below from Close Up's 2024 Election Toolkit offer comprehensive guides designed to help you maximize your debate-watching experience. These guides include a Pre-Debate Guide, Debate Watch Guide, and a Debate Reflection Guide.

Pre-Debate Guide:

• Before the debate, use the Pre-Debate Guide to set your expectations.
• This guide helps you identify the key issues that matter most to you and encourages you to consider how the candidates might address them.
• What are the pressing challenges that need solutions? Which leadership qualities are you looking for?
• The Pre-Debate Guide prepares you to critically engage with the debate, allowing you to compare your expectations with what actually takes place.

Debate Watch Guide:

• During the debate, the Debate Watch Guide will help you stay focused on how candidates articulate their positions and respond to questions.
• Pay attention to their tone, their ability to clearly communicate their policies, and how they handle pressure.
• This guide encourages you to take notes on key moments, compare candidates’ approaches, and reflect on how their platforms align with your values and concerns.

Debate Reflection Guide:

• After the debate, the Debate Reflection Guide is an essential tool for processing what you’ve seen.
• How did the candidates’ performances measure up to your expectations? Did the debate change your views on any issues?
• Reflect on how the discussion impacted your understanding of the key topics and consider what this means for your role as an informed voter.

Host a Debate Watch Party

Engage your community by hosting a debate watch party using the League of Women Voters' guide!

Choose a comfortable location, promote the event widely, and encourage a diverse group of attendees. Use the discussion guides provided by the League to foster meaningful conversations during and after the debate. Create a welcoming atmosphere with snacks and respectful dialogue, helping participants become more informed and engaged voters.

Debate Watch Party Tip Sheet from the League of Women Voters'