Drake University is proud to once again partner with CNN in hosting a nationally televised GOP presidential primary debate. The GOP primary debate will take place in historic Sheslow Auditorium on Jan. 10, 2024—just five days before Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucuses.
“We are honored to continue playing a central role in the democratic process at Drake University,” said Drake University President Marty Martin. “Des Moines and Drake have long been a hub for political and civic engagement on the national stage, and we are excited to carry on that tradition leading into the 2024 election, inviting our students, our community, and thousands of visitors to engage in presidential politics.”
This is the fifth presidential election cycle in a row that Drake University has hosted a nationally televised debate, having hosted three democratic debates and now three republican debates since 2007. The debate will air live on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español and CNN Max.
Ticketing information for the Jan. 10 debate is forthcoming. For press and media credentialing questions, please reach out to CNNDebates2024@cnn.com.
Drake: a hub for civic engagement
Drake’s history of hosting nationally televised debates is one of many ways in which students gain unparalleled opportunities to participate in the democratic process—making Drake the school of choice for politically minded students everywhere.
- The Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy serves as a hub for democratic dialogue, research, and action focused on supporting a healthy democracy. The Center combines coursework, innovative programming, research, and hands-on learning opportunities for students to engage in the political process.
- The Harkin Institute for Public Policy and Citizen Engagement serves as a venue and catalyst for non-partisan research, learning, and outreach to promote understanding of the policy issues to which retired Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin devoted his career: labor and employment, people with disabilities, retirement security, and wellness and nutrition.
- Drake Constitutional Law Center was established by Congress and funded by the federal government to foster study of the U.S. Constitution and its roots, formation, principles, and development.
- The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, named for the former Iowa governor and first lady, provides resources to improve civility and encourage character eduation, and leadership.
- Vote Smart is a non-partisan research organization, based at Drake, that provides free, factual, unbiased information on candidates and elected officials.
For more information about Drake’s political experience and academic programs for politically minded students, visit drake.edu/wedupolitics.