Commission on Presidential Debates Selects University of Denver to Host First 2012 President Debate

The Commission on Presidential Debates has selected the University of Denver as the host site for the first 2012 Presidential debate.

Robert Coombe, Chancellor of the University, made the announcement in Denver today. The debate will be held Wednesday, October 3, in the Magness Arena at the Daniel L. Ritchie Center for Sports and Wellness.

Chancellor Coombe said, "This is a historic event for our campus, our city, and our state. The national and international spotlight will be on the University of Denver. Our commitment to addressing the great issues of the day and serving the public good make this event a perfect fit for us."

Don Smith, director of the Sturm College of Law Environmental and Natural Resources Law (ENRL) program, said, "The first 2012 Presidential debate will take place just 200 meters from the law building. While it is too early to predict what topics the debate will focus on, what is clear is that resources, environment, and energy-related issues will be part of the national discussion as November 2012 approaches. Being part of the ENRL program at Denver Law means that students will not only be learning about the underlying policy issues, but also seeing them being debated right next door."

All tickets are assigned by the Commission on Presidential Debates, and the majority of these tickets will go to the two campaigns for distribution to their supporters. The details are still being worked out.

DU faculty and staff will be involved in special programming for students in order to provide hands-on opportunities to experience this historic event. The ENRL program will post more information as it becomes available about these opportunities.

Editor's note: Photo of candidates Barack Obama and John McCain from 2008 debate.