CLEVELAND, Ohio — In just a few weeks the first 2020 presidential debate will take place in Cleveland. The National Press Club hosted a forum Tuesday laying out what the debate will look like in the face of COVID-19.

 

What You Need To Know

  • The debate will take place at Case Western Reserve University on Sept. 29

  • The Cleveland Clinic will serve as the health advisor for all four debates

  • Plans have been reworked to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 guidelines

The three co-chairs for the Commission on Presidential Debates met virtually ahead of the first presidential debate this month to talk about preparations for the upcoming debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden.

"We originally announced the dates and locations for this years debates back in October and of course had no idea that we'd run into what we've run into," said Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr., the dean of the co-chairs and co-founder of the Commission on Presidential Debates.

During this National Press Club online event, the commission gave an overview of the Sept. 29 presidential debate that will take place at the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University.

 

It will be the first of three presidential debates, plus an additional debate featuring the candidates for vice president.

Originally, the plan was to hold this month's debate at the University of Notre Dam, but because of COVID-19 implications, it was moved to Case Western Reserve University with the Cleveland Clinic serving as a sponsor.

"We're going into different states. Different states have certain protocols, and we're going to have to comply with all of that," said Fahrenkopf.

Right now, the logistics are still being worked out regarding layout and attendance.

In a press release, the Cleveland Clinic's Dr. James Merlino provided this statement in conjunction with the commission on presidential debates, saying:

“We are all challenged with adapting to a ‘new normal’ and safety is key as we all face this pandemic together. The Cleveland Clinic has been focused on understanding, containing and preparing for covid-19. We are sharing our knowledge and advising various industries to help keep our communities safe as we enter into this next phase of covid-19 response.”

The Cleveland Clinic will be responsible for determining whether an audience can be present, and if so, how many people can be present.
Additionally, social distancing guidelines for the space and procedures for disinfecting the room are being finalized.

The debate will take place Sept. 29 at 9:00 p.m.