New Mexico First is partnering with the Commission on Congressional Debates and will be hosting Cross-Partisan Debate Watch Parties, a series of conversations from the comfort of your home, following the 2020 Presidential Debates. The Presidential Debates are scheduled for September 29, October 8, October 16, and October 23. The Watch Parties will follow the debates and are dedicated to thoughtful and cross-partisan discussions about issues important to New Mexicans. These events will be hosted through Zoom. Participants will be able to join these educational conversations through one of two event options: Night Owl Sessions and Early Bird Sessions. Night Owl Sessions will be held immediately after each debate. Early Bird Sessions will be held the morning after each debate, at 8:00 AM MST. It’s FREE and not too late to register by going to http://nmfirst.org/events/debates .

New Mexico First is dedicated to creating space for diverse political perspectives to be represented and honored. Martha Romero, PHD, Current Board Member of New Mexico First noted, “New Mexico First is an outstanding organization to host an honest, respectful conversation about what people take away from the debates. Thoughtful discussion can be useful in formulating our thoughts and decisions about our votes.”

Tom Garrity, Former Board Member of New Mexico First, added, “This current age of partisanship seems to be defined by volume instead of respect; the upcoming presidential debates provide the opportunity focus on the later as the two presidential candidates paint their vision for our country. The programs being organized by New Mexico First will provide a safe and civil place to discuss the debates and differences in a context of respectful dialogue. I am honored to help facilitate a part of this democratic process by moderating discussion following the final Presidential debate.”

New Mexico First has served as a strong advocate for good governance and the preservation of democracy for more than 34 years. New Mexicans are encouraged to join the Debate Watch Parties and use them as a tool to fully inform themselves before voting in the General Election on November 3, 2020. “The general election presidential debates are important because it’s the only opportunity we, as voters, have to see the candidates on the same stage, at the same time, addressing the same questions,” said Dorothy Ridings, co-chair, Commission on Presidential Debates. Henry Brutus, Current Board Member of New Mexico First, additionally noted, “It is crucial to be informed. The debates give us a preview of the direction of our country in the foreseeable future.”

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For more information on the New Mexico First Debate Watch Parties, visit www.nmfirst.org.

About: New Mexico First builds consensus on critical issues facing our state and communities and leads positive policy change through deliberative town halls, forums, and nonpartisan work on education, the economy, healthcare, natural resources, and good governance.