March 19, 2024

DMACC-Newton to host televised congressional debate

Voters in the Newton area will soon get their chance to size up Iowa Second Congressional District candidates Rep. Dave Loebsack and John Archer up close.

This morning, Iowa Public Television and Des Moines Area Community College announced that a live congressional debate will be hosted 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, in the Newton Campus Conference Center Auditorium. The debate will be moderated by IPTV’s Dean Borg.

“The Newton Campus is excited to partner with IPTV to provide this important community service,” said Newton Campus Provost Mary Entz. “We hope that not only our students but local residents will take advantage of this opportunity.”

Loebsack, an Iowa City Democrat, is the incumbent in the newly created district. Archer, a Bettendorf Republican, is the challenger. It was not clear as of press time what the format or length of the debate would be.

The debate is open to the public and admission is free. Doors will open at 6 p.m., and they are set to close at 6:45 p.m., at which time all guests must be in their seats. Opening remarks will be made by DMACC Vice President of Business Services Greg Martin prior to the broadcast.

Bob Eschliman is editor of the Newton Daily News and can be contacted at (641) 792-3121, ext. 423, or at beschliman@newtondailynews.com via email.