Organizers announced Thursday that there will be gubernatorial debates on both October 8th and 9th ahead of the election on November 3rd.
Wisconsin voters will have back-to-back opportunities to see the major-party candidates for governor face off in October as the open 2026 race for the state’s top office heats up.
Organizers announced Thursday that a gubernatorial town hall debate is set for Thursday, Oct. 8, at 6 p.m. at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Zelazo Center. TMJ4 is partnering with Milwaukee County municipal leaders on the event, which will focus on property taxes and local government financial challenges. The format will feature reporters highlighting issues from across southeast Wisconsin, with statewide broadcast reach through partner stations.
The following night, Friday, Oct. 9, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Foundation will air its traditional statewide televised debate at 7 p.m., hosted by Milwaukee PBS. Qualifying candidates will be invited to participate in the hour-long event, produced with input from radio and television stations across the state. Veteran moderator Jill Geisler is expected to lead the discussion.
