2025 Virginia Gubernatorial Debate At Virginia State University Canceled After Candidate Earle-Sears Declined The Invitation
VSU responds to the cancellation of the People's Debate, sponsored by AARP Virginia.
The People’s Debate sponsored by AARP Virginia that was to be held at Virginia State University on Sept. 16 has been canceled after Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears declined the invitation on Wednesday.
The Republican nominee, Winsome Earle-Sears, declined the invitation because of a scheduling conflict. Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger's campaign accepted the debate invitation in July on behalf of the Democratic nominee.
"We are very disappointed to learn that the gubernatorial debate scheduled to take place at Virginia State University in September has been canceled," said Dr. Gwen Williams-Dandridge, Assistant Vice President for Communications. "This event would have been an exciting and valuable opportunity for our students to witness the democratic process firsthand and engage with issues that impact our communities. While we regret that they will not have this unique experience, we remain open and eager to host similar events in the future that connect our students to civic engagement and public discourse."
Since 2006, AARP Virginia and Richmond's WTVR-CBS 6 have held the People's Debate for statewide election races. This year’s debate was to be produced by WTVR-CBS 6 and held inside the VSU Multi-Purpose Center. The candidates would have answered questions from a panel that included VSU representatives.
VSU remains committed to providing platforms for civic engagement and meaningful dialogue. The University welcomes opportunities to host events that foster informed participation in the democratic process and connect students with issues that shape their communities.