Virginia State University Selected To Host 2025 Virginia Gubernatorial Debate

Following its historic selection to host a presidential debate in 2024, the University will now host the prestigious Virginia Gubernatorial Debate.

Virginia State University is proud to announce that it has been selected to host The People’s Debate for this year’s gubernatorial election. The debate, which will be held at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center on September 16, is sponsored by AARP Virginia and produced by Richmond's WTVR-CBS 6. The People’s Debate is Virginia’s oldest and most widely broadcast statewide debate.

VSU is excited to host this event following its selection in 2024 as the nation’s first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) to host a General Election U.S. Presidential Debate. That debate was canceled after both candidates opted for a different debate format.

“VSU remains committed to providing a platform for political discourse and engagement,” said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah. “This is a proud moment for our University, and we look forward to offering our venue for this meaningful dialogue that will help voters make an informed decision about Virginia’s next governor.”

AARP Virginia began hosting The People’s Debate in 2006 for all gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races. Following the conclusion of nomination contests on June 17, AARP Virginia will extend formal invitations to eligible candidates. To qualify, candidates must appear on the general election ballot, have a staffed campaign headquarters, and, within 45 days of the event, secure at least 15 percent voter support in one statistically valid poll conducted by a reputable news media or independent organization.

“AARP Virginia has worked for decades to make sure voters have the information they need to make their own choices when casting their ballots,” said AARP Virginia State Director Jim Dau. “Nothing is more meaningful to voters than hearing directly from the people vying to represent them. The People’s Debate gives the candidates a unique opportunity to speak directly to voters and weigh in on the issues that matter most to them.”

VSU looks forward to working alongside AARP Virginia and WTVR-CBS 6 to ensure a successful event. The Virginia Gubernatorial election is November 4, 2025.