Nexstar Media Group is using the power of its vast portfolio of local television stations to produce and distribute more than a dozen midterm-focused debates with political candidates in 12 states between now and the November 3 election.
The debates will feature candidates for U.S. Senate, U.S. House, governor and lieutenant governor. The upcoming events follow 24 debates and candidate forums hosted by Nexstar television stations across 18 states during the spring and summer primary season, bringing the company’s total to 41 events during the 2026 election cycle.
Nexstar said several of the debates will focus on closely watched Senate and gubernatorial races.
In Michigan, Nexstar-owned WOOD-TV (Channel 8, NBC) in Grand Rapids will host a U.S. Senate debate between Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed on October 8 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
WHO-TV (Channel 13, NBC) in Des Moines will host an Iowa U.S. Senate debate between Republican U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson and Democratic State Representative Josh Turek on October 13 from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time.
In Pennsylvania, WHTM-TV (Channel 27, ABC) in Harrisburg will host a gubernatorial debate between Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro and Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity on October 7 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
Nexstar stations will also carry gubernatorial debates in Michigan, Rhode Island and Connecticut, among other election events.
“The unique reach of our local stations enables Nexstar to provide these types of forums across the states and local communities we serve,” Andrew Alford, the President of Nexstar’s broadcasting division, said in a statement via press release on Tuesday.
Alford said the company expects to present additional debates as the midterm election approaches. NewsNation, Nexstar’s cable news outlet, will simulcast some debates hosted by Nexstar local stations over the coming weeks.
