RALEIGH, NC – The North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership (IOPL) is proud to announce the 2024 Hometown Debate Series, an annual initiative aimed at enhancing the democratic process by engaging citizens in key state-level issues. As a nonpartisan nonprofit organization, IOPL remains dedicated to improving the practice of democracy across North Carolina, and this year’s Debate Series will continue that tradition.

The 2024 Hometown Debate Series will focus on three critical North Carolina Council of State races, offering voters a unique and valuable opportunity to hear directly from the candidates about their policies, positions, and visions for the future. The debates will feature candidates from both major parties, ensuring a balanced and informative discussion on the issues that matter most to North Carolinians.

“We believe that informed citizens are the cornerstone of a healthy democracy,” IOPL Executive Director. “The Hometown Debate Series is designed to bring important discussions to the communities where these decisions have the most impact.”

This year, IOPL is once again partnering with Spectrum News to bring the debates to a statewide audience. Each debate will be aired multiple times each weekend following the event, ensuring that voters across North Carolina have the opportunity to engage with the content. Spectrum News 1 Political Reporter and Anchor Loretta Boniti will return as moderator, bringing her extensive experience and insight to the series.

The 2024 Debate Series will include the following events:

  • Superintendent of Public Instruction Debate: September 24 at East Carolina University
    Mo Green (D) vs. Michele Morrow (R)
  • Commissioner of Labor Debate: October 1 at the Johnston County Community College Luke Farley (R) vs. Charlotte City Councilor Braxton Winston (D)
  • North Carolina State Treasurer Debate: October 8 at Greensboro College
    Brad Briner (R) vs. NC Rep. Wesley Harris (D)

The 2024 Hometown Debate Series is sponsored by Fidelity Investments, the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association, the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina, and the North Carolina Electric Cooperatives.

For more information about the Hometown Debate Series and to view the full schedule, please visit IOPL.org.

About the North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership
The North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the practice of democracy in North Carolina. Through leadership training, public education, and community engagement initiatives, IOPL strives to cultivate informed, ethical, and effective public servants who will lead North Carolina forward.