Nebraska Public Media is partnering with several Nebraska media outlets to present a live television debate between two congressional candidates.
Republican incumbent Don Bacon will debate Democratic challenger Tony Vargas in the Ron Hull Studio at Nebraska Public Media in Lincoln during the hour-long debate.
The candidates for the second district seat will take the stage at 8 p.m. CT on Tuesday, Oct. 8 on Nebraska Public Media. The debate will be broadcast on Nebraska Public Media’s television and radio channels, with live streaming on Facebook, YouTube, the Nebraska Public Media website and the Nebraska Public Media app.
Nebraska Examiner political reporter Aaron Sanderford will moderate the debate. The presenting partners include Nebraska Public Media, the Nebraska Examiner, the Omaha World-Herald, the Lincoln Journal Star and KRVN Rural Radio Network.
The race is a rematch from two years ago when Bacon secured the spot with 51.63% of the vote, beating Vargas who received 48.37% of the vote.
Bacon cruised past challenger Dan Frei in the 2024 Primary Election and has represented Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District for seven years.
Bacon received endorsements from Gov. Jim Pillen and other leaders within the Republican party.
Vargas was the lone Democrat in the primary race and automatically advanced to the general election.
The debate is part of Nebraska Public Media’s “Campaign Connection 2024” coverage, a multiplatform effort that focuses on providing information to voters about Nebraska contests and issues, as well as the race for the White House.
More information is available here.