2026 Debates Are Changing. Here’s What That Means For You
Citizens Clean Elections Commission (Clean Elections) is preparing for the 2026 election cycle with two major updates designed to expand voter access and strengthen debate coverage across Arizona.
First, we are moving federal and statewide candidate debates to a new production home. Second, we are expanding legislative debates through a new media partnership to reach broader audiences. Both changes serve the same purpose. To make it easier for voters to hear directly from candidates, make informed decisions, and provide candidates a fair opportunity to debate the issues.
As Clean Elections, we remain a nonpartisan organization focused on voter education, clean campaign funding, and transparency. These updates continue our mission by improving how debate information is created, shared, and experienced statewide.
New Debate Location Brings Higher Quality And Wider Reach
For the 2026 cycle, we will produce candidate debates at SNEAKY BIG Studio in Scottsdale. This 15,000-square-foot production facility is one of the most advanced in Arizona, built for high-quality broadcast and digital distribution. The move supports a growing demand for accessible, reliable debate coverage.
Clean Elections will distribute debates across television, radio, and digital platforms, with both statewide and regional simulcasting planned. This gives more voters the ability to watch debates live or access them later in a way that fits their schedule.
Accessibility remains a priority in everything we produce. Broadcasts will include Spanish audio translation, American Sign Language interpretation, and live captioning. Our debate format is designed for clarity, allowing candidates to respond directly to one another so voters can compare positions, priorities, and approaches side by side.
Arizona Media Association Continues Statewide Distribution
We continue our partnership with the Arizona Media Association to distribute debate content across a wide network of media outlets. This collaboration has already proven its reach.
During the last election cycle, debate content was used more than 1,600 times across television, radio, and digital platforms. That level of distribution matters because it allows voters to access debates through trusted, familiar local channels while maintaining consistent, nonpartisan information.
With more than 350 media brands involved, this partnership helps ensure debate coverage reaches voters wherever they are.
New Partnership With Arizona Agenda Expands Legislative Debate Coverage
In addition to statewide and congressional debates, we are expanding coverage of legislative debates through a new partnership with Arizona Agenda. With all 90 seats in the Arizona State Legislature on the ballot in 2026, these races play a significant role in shaping state policy.
Through this partnership, we will livestream legislative debates and work with experienced Arizona Agenda journalists to moderate discussions. The goal is clear. Increase awareness of legislative candidates and make it easier for voters to follow races that often receive less attention.
Each debate will be promoted in advance, with summaries and recordings available afterward. This gives voters the flexibility to stay informed even if they cannot watch live and creates a lasting, accessible record of candidate positions.
Debate Schedules And What To Expect In 2026
The 2026 election cycle introduces a July 21 primary election date. As a result, primary debates will begin as early as May. We have published a preliminary schedule that includes statewide, congressional, and legislative races. Final dates and formats will continue to be updated as candidates confirm participation.
How Voters Can Participate In The Debate Process
Debates are not just for candidates and moderators. Voters play a direct role in shaping the conversation. We invite you to submit questions for candidates ahead of each debate. You can share your questions by:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 602-364-3477
- Toll-free: 877-631-8891
This helps ensure debates reflect the real issues and priorities across Arizona communities. To prepare, you can also use the Voter Dashboard to find your legislative district, review upcoming elections, and see what will appear on your ballot.
Stay Informed And Follow The 2026 Arizona Debate Series
We continue to serve as Arizona’s official debate sponsor, providing nonpartisan access to candidate information across the state. Debates offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from candidates in a structured, transparent setting. They help you compare choices, understand key issues, and make decisions with confidence.
Find the latest debate schedule, watch upcoming events, and explore voter tools right here. Make a plan to watch debates and submit a question. The more informed you are, the stronger your vote becomes.
FAQs:
1. When Do The Candidate Debates Start In Arizona?
Primary debates are expected to begin in May 2026, ahead of the July 21 primary election. Schedules are updated regularly here.
2. How Can I Watch Arizona Candidate Debates?
Debates will be available through television, radio, digital platforms, and livestreams. Many will also be simulcast statewide or regionally. All debates will be available on the Clean Elections YouTube channel (insert link)
3. Can Voters Submit Questions For Debate Candidates?
Yes. Voters can submit questions by emailing [email protected] or calling 602-364-3477 to help shape the topics discussed.
April 21 - 2026