Hofstra University will host the first gubernatorial debate between GOP candidate Carl Paladino, Democratic opponent Andrew Cuomo and five third-party candidates on Monday, Oct. 18.
All seven candidates said they plan to attend, including Anti-Prohibition Party candidate Kristin Davis, Freedom Party candidate Charles Barron, Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins, Libertarian Party candidate Warren Redlich and Jimmy McMillan of the Rent is too Damn High Party.
The debate comes after Paladino accused Cuomo of avoiding a debate. It also comes two years after the university hosted the third and final Presidential debate in 2008.
“This election is a critical one for New York State, and hosting a debate is an important public service,” said Stuart Rabinowitz, Hofstra University president. “Our students will have the opportunity to again witness history first-hand, and the public will have an opportunity to learn about the candidates’ views and experience.”
The audience will include community members, local leaders, and Hofstra students and faculty.
“We are splitting the audience between all of the organizational partners, and for Hofstra there will be a ticket lottery to students and faculty,” Melissa Connelly, a university spokeswoman, said.
The hour and a half long debate is a cable-exclusive event, and will air live on News12 at 7 p.m. It will also been broadcasted on other local cable stations throughout the state. New 12 and Newsday will also stream the event live on their websites.