Political Debates

We believe strong local journalism leads to informed voters and a stronger America.

Nexstar’s ability to provide a platform where competing candidates can debate issues head-to-head and speak directly to hundreds of thousands of voters across entire states, while simultaneously providing those voters in affected local communities the chance to assess their candidates, is a public service and central to the company’s core mission.

During the 2026 campaign season, Nexstar’s local television stations will host, produce, and televise 40 candidate debates or forums across 30 different states coast to coast. Coverage includes the primaries and carries through the midterms on November 3.

In past debates, Nexstar stations have featured candidates running for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, the United States House of Representatives, and the United States Senate being questioned by local reporters who know the issues that matter most to voters.

We are pleased and honored to present these debates and committed to doing even more of them as the midterm election draws closer.