UVU hosts the 3rd Congressional District debate

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Utah Valley University will host the 3rd Congressional District debate on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. in UVU’s Grande Ballroom, located in the Student Center (SC). The intended participants include Bennion Spencer, Democrat; Jason Chaffetz, Republican; and Jim Noorlander, Constitution.

Before the debate, a reception will be held from 6:15 until 7 p.m. just outside the Grande Ballroom. This time is dedicated to the public. Attendees of the event are encouraged to speak with each candidate before the debate begins.

UVU students are encouraged to attend this public event. “We enjoy having students being civically involved,” said Joseph Watkins, UVU student body president. “It is a good opportunity for them and for us.”

“We have set aside 45 minutes before the debates to begin for students, faculty and community members to personally visit with the candidates,” said Elaine Englehardt, UVU professor of ethics. “It is an opportunity to see the candidates in a casual setting and exchange ideas and points of view.”

The debate, organized by Englehardt, is part of the Utah Democracy Project, designed to enlighten students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community about the importance of the United States’ political system.

“A well-educated population is vital in a functioning democracy,” said Englehardt. “It is important for students, faculty and community members to learn as much as they can about the three candidates. (They) have diverse points of view. We should educate ourselves about their positions in vital areas of our lives and vote for the candidate who can best represent our community.”

The Ethics Center, as well as several UVU student leaders and campus groups, will provide the questions posed to each candidate. The questions will be submitted to the “Daily Herald” for delivery at the debate.

The debate will be moderated by Randy Wright, managing editor of the “Daily Herald,” and broadcast live on UVU channels 17 and 77. UVU plans to rebroadcast the debate before the Nov. 4 elections.

The event is cosponsored by the Associated Students of UVU, the “Daily Herald” and the Office of the President. It is free to the public. Parking will be available in the student center lot, which is located north of the Student Center.