What you need to know about tonight's Republican debate in Charleston

Image by Flickr user cytosine

Tonight, January 19, at 8 p.m. Charleston will enter the political spotlight as the GOP would-be presidential stars descend on the Holy City just one day before the S.C. GOP primary.

They'll be in town, of course, for the CNN/Southern Republican Presidential Debate hosted by John King. If you'd like to attend the debate, it'll cost you $45.

As for why the cost is higher than you might thing, purchasing a ticket for the debate also requires getting the full day pass to the Southern Republican Leadership Conference. If you'd like to buy a ticket, do so here and note that you'll need to be there no later than 7:30.

You can watch the debate on CNN or by tuning in online at the network's website.

If you're looking for a bit more background leading into the debate, I'll point you to The Post and Courier's preview.

If you'd like to submit a question, use the Twitter hashtag of #CNNDebate or submit it with CNN's webform over here.

There will also be a host of public events today at the College of Charleston:

At 11 a.m. Ron Paul will be at the college's "The Bully Pulpit Series: Reflections on Presidential Communication" at the Stern Center Garden.

On Friday, January 20, "Anderson Cooper 360″ is expected to be broadcast live from 8 to 9 p.m. in the Cistern Yard. Spectators are welcome. "Erin Burnett OutFront" is expected to be broadcast live from behind Randolph Hall from 7 to 8 p.m, that set, however, will be closed to the public.