January 12, 2021 News & Press Releases

DPVA Announces Debates Planned For Statewide Democratic Primary Elections


by Democratic Party of Virginia

Richmond, VA — With an unprecedented number of Democrats stepping up to run for statewide office this year, the Democratic Party of Virginia has partnered with news organizations across Virginia to plan primary debates for the statewide elections. The party will help organize and plan multiple debates for the candidates running for governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general.

The Democratic candidates for governor will participate in four debates. Those debates will be in Southwest Virginia, Hampton Roads, Richmond, and Northern Virginia. Candidates who have committed are: 

  • Jennifer Carroll Foy
  • Lee Carter
  • Justin Fairfax
  • Terry McAuliffe
  • Jennifer McClellan

DPVA is also planning multiple debates for Democrats running for lieutenant governor and attorney general in Richmond, Northern Virginia, Roanoke, and Hampton Roads. 

"Virginians need a leader who understands the challenges they face, not more of the status quo. Our debates will be a great forum to present meaningful solutions to Virginians, and I'm glad the Democratic Party of Virginia is organizing these debates to give us the chance to do that," said Jennifer Carroll Foy

"Virginians deserve to know where the candidates running for governor stand on the issues they're grappling with every day. With a pandemic that has killed thousands of Virginians and left hundreds of thousands unemployed, we need a real discussion about the right way to rebuild our Commonwealth, and I'm looking forward to participating in these debates so we can have that conversation," said Lee Carter.  

"I'm looking forward to spirited debates with my fellow Virginia Democrats this spring. Our party succeeds when we have an open, democratic process for choosing our nominee, and these debates are an important part of that. I want to thank DPVA for taking an active role in planning these debates and making sure Virginians across the Commonwealth can hear directly from the candidates before they vote," said Justin Fairfax

"There is so much at stake in this election, Virginians around the Commonwealth deserve to hear directly from us about our plans for Virginia's future. I look forward to sharing my big, bold vision to invest in education, rebuild the post-COVID economy, create good jobs, and ensure access to health care for all. As governor, I will work every day to create a stronger, more equitable Virginia," said Terry McAuliffe

"I'm excited to join these debates to discuss the most important issues facing our Commonwealth. With COVID-19 making in-person campaigning more difficult, debates like these will be essential to helping voters make an informed decision on who is the best choice to lead our Commonwealth through this crisis. I applaud DPVA's commitment to make sure voters get an opportunity to see several debates before the June primary," said Jennifer McClellan

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