OHIO — The Ohio Debate Commission invited candidates in contested Republican and Democratic races for U.S. Senate and Ohio governor to debate at Central State University in Wilberforce. 

What You Need To Know

  • Candidates for U.S. Senate and Ohio governor have been invited to debate 

  • The debate will be held on the campus of Central State University in Wilberforce

  • It's expected to be held in late March

The debate would be held at the historically Black college and university (HBCU) campus and would be live-streamed to reach as many voters as possible.

The debate for U.S. Senate is set to be held on Monday, March 28 and the debate for Ohio governor would be on Tuesday, March 29.

 “Central State University is honored, excited and fully committed to serve as host site for the state of Ohio primary debates," said Dr. Jack Thomas, Central State University president. “All planning is moving forward with the safety of our campus community, the candidates, campaign staff, members of the press and all other guests as the top priority.”

Ohio’s U.S. Senate seat is open due to Sen. Rob Portman’s retirement. 

The candidates for the U.S. Senate on the Republican side are Sen. Matt Dolan, businessman Mike Gibbons, Bill Graham, former State Treasurer Josh Mandel, Neil Patel, Mark Pukita, former chair of the Ohio Republican Party Jane Timken, and author J.D. Vance.

Contending for the Democratic nomination are attorney Morgan Harper, Traci Johnson, Congressman Tim Ryan, and LaShondra Tinsley.

The candidates seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Ohio Governor are former Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley and former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley.

The Republican gubernatorial candidates are Joe Blystone, a central Ohio farmer, incumbent Governor Mike DeWine, former State Rep. Ron Hood, and former Congressman Jim Renacci.

Information about the submission of questions from the public and the ability to register for tickets will be released later. 

Click here for updates. 

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