Gubernatorial Debate Sept. 18 in Spokane

Debates will feature top two candidates for governor, attorney general, lands commissioner and superintendent of public instruction

OLYMPIA - The Association of Washington Business announced plans today to host its seventh gubernatorial debate Sept. 18 at the annual Policy Summit in Spokane in partnership with Greater Spokane Inc. (GSI).

AWB, the state's oldest and largest business association representing all industries, has a history of hosting debates among candidates for statewide office dating to 1992. AWB has hosted a gubernatorial debate every four years except for the pandemic year of 2020, in addition to hosting approximately two dozen debates for other statewide offices.

"We consider it a privilege and honor to contribute to the state's civic conversation by hosting these debates every four years," said AWB President Kris Johnson. "Washington hasn't seen an open governor's race since 2012, making this an especially important election. We are excited to bring the candidates together for an open discussion and exchange of ideas about how best to move our state forward."

GSI will partner with AWB in hosting the debates, as it has done since 2012.

"We look forward to once again partnering with the Association of Washington Business to host this pivotal gubernatorial debate right here in Spokane," said Alisha Benson, CEO of Greater Spokane Inc. "As we approach an election that will help shape the future of Washington, it is crucial to facilitate informed, civil, and open dialogue among the candidates. We are thrilled to help host this event and contribute to the civil discourse in a meaningful way."

NonStop Local KHQ-TV will serve as broadcast partner for the 6 p.m. gubernatorial debate airing on TV and streaming at nonstoplocal.com. Moderators will include KHQ news anchors Sean Owsley and Kalae Chock, and Austin Jenkins, staff writer for Pluribus News and host of TVW's "Inside Olympia."

In addition to the gubernatorial debate, the AWB Policy Summit will include debates for other statewide races including attorney general, commissioner of public lands and superintendent of public instruction.