Dear Sagehens,
Civic engagement and active participation in the democratic process are fundamental to Pomona’s mission and identity. I am therefore especially pleased to announce that on Tuesday, April 28, Pomona will host a live debate featuring the top candidates to be the next governor of California. And I am thrilled to share that our own Sara Sadhwani, assistant professor of politics, will join CBS News California journalists as a moderator for this pivotal occasion.
This first event of its kind at Pomona College will occur just five days before primary election ballots are mailed to voters across our state. The debate will provide a unique opportunity for California voters to assess the candidates and could have a significant impact on the race. I am grateful to the institutions partnering with us to coordinate this exciting event: CBS News California and Asian Pacific American Public Affairs (APAPA). The debate will be broadcast live from Pomona on CBS stations statewide.
As you may know, California primaries are open, meaning that candidates from all parties are considered together. As a result, this debate will present a rare opportunity for voters to consider the perspectives of every leading candidate vying to be governor of the most populous state in our nation.
This event will be held in Bridges Auditorium at 5:30 p.m., with television coverage starting at 5 p.m. We will provide opportunities for students, faculty and staff to be part of the broadcast, but because of the space constraints that result from broadcasting live debates, seating in Bridges will be limited.
We have launched a new webpage with the information currently available, and we will continue to post updates as details are finalized with our partners and the candidates’ representatives.
I’m also happy to share that, in addition to the live broadcast inside Bridges Auditorium, our ASPC and Pomona's student chapter of the League of Women Voters will partner to host a debate watch party in Frary Dining Hall, expanding opportunities for campus-wide engagement. CBS News California will be present to capture live reactions throughout the evening. There will also be continued programming in Frary following the debate, featuring faculty experts and special guests for reflection, analysis and discussion.
We look forward to bringing this timely and important event to Pomona and continue to encourage everyone to engage in shaping the political life of our state and nation.
Sincerely,
Gabi