Race for the 7th: Two primary debates scheduled (this Tuesday & Thursday)

Flickr User: tranchis

There are two upcoming primary debates in the race for the 7th district. Hosting both the Republican and the Democratic debates is the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and the Grand Strand Business Alliance. 

A democratic primary debate will take place on June 5, 2012, followed a republican primary debate hosted on June 7th at Myrtle Beach High School. 

“We are excited to have this opportunity to hear the candidates for the U.S. 7th Congressional district House seat address issues that are important to the Myrtle Beach area and entire Grand Strand business community, and even more excited that we’re able to provide this sort of forum for those residing within the 7th Congressional district,” said Richard Singleton, chairman of the MBACC board of directors. 

Both debates are expected to garner national media attention including an appearance by Joe Scarborough, political commentator and host of popular weekday morning talk show ‘Morning Joe’ at the republican primary debate. Scarborough will address event attendees on the current national political climate in the pre-debate program prior to candidates taking to the stage. Additionally, each debate will also be broadcast live on two Grand Strand/Pee Dee television stations, NBC affiliated WMBF News and ABC affiliated WPDE Newschannel 15. 

“We’re happy to be broadcasting these debates live for our viewers that may not be able to make it to the events in-person. Being able to hear from all of the candidates and know their positions before the primary elections is critical for those living within the 7th Congressional district,” said Ted Fortenberry, vice president and general manager of NBC affiliate station WMBF News. 

“Having this new congressional district is exciting for Grand Strand and Pee Dee residents and we know they’re eager to see someone representing their values in office. We see this is a great opportunity to give our viewers time with the candidates, both republican and democratic, prior to the important June primary elections,” said Billy Huggins, President and CEO of ABC affiliate WPDE Newschannel 15. 

MBACC and GSBA officials have said that while both debates will be free to attendees, a live broadcasting by two separate stations will provide greater access to Grand Strand and Pee Dee voters, giving them the valuable opportunity to hear from all candidates. The MBACC and GSBA also plan to host a debate before the general election this November and are currently working on details for that event. 

Admission to the debates are free and starting tomorrow, Tuesday, May 22, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. you can pick up tickets at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Oak Street Office or down at their  Murrells Inlet office.

Both debates start at 8 p.m., however doors open at 5:30 p.m. and there will be a pre-debate program at 6:30 p.m.