CLEVELAND — All seven Cleveland mayoral candidates were on one stage on Tuesday as early voting in the race will begin on Aug. 17. 

Tuesday’s debate at the Idea Center in Playhouse Square was the first of two hosted by Ideastream Public Media. The first debate focused on racial equality, public safety, housing, transparency in government and health equity.

The second debate will cover education, jobs, the economy, environmental issues and transportation. Questions for both debates will come from voters. 

The candidates were not asked the same questions, but were asked one question in each subject. The candidates were also afforded opening and closing statements. 

Of the seven candidates, several would be newcomers to elected office. 

On Sept. 14, an open primary will whittle the field of seven down to two candidates. The final two candidates will participate in the Nov. 2 general election. 

The registration deadline for the September primary is Aug. 16. Early voting begins the next day.

In 2017, the last time a mayoral primary was held, 33,542 ballots were cast among 261,875 registered voters. 

Click below to watch the first debate: