Both the University of Michigan and Notre Dame canceled their previous plans to host the Presidential debate between President Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden, but Nashville’s Belmont University has no plans to follow suit. In a statement, via Fox 17, the college says it will still host the third and final debate, which will take place on October 22.
Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic will now host the first Presidential debate on September 29, while the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami will hold the second one on October 15.
“At Belmont, we view ourselves as a partner of the Commission on Presidential Debates and are pleased that they were able to quickly secure an alternate location for the first debate,” Belmont President Bob Fisher said. “In doing so, the Commission once again demonstrated their commitment to making these important forums available to American citizens. Belmont shares in that commitment, strongly believes in the importance of these debates to the democratic process, and enthusiastically affirms its intent to host the third and final debate on October 22.
“The involvement of the Cleveland Clinic – not just as co-host of the first debate but as Health Security Advisor for all the general election debates – gives us even greater confidence that we can host this historic event while keeping the safety of our campus community, the candidates, campaign staffs, members of the press and all other guests as the top priority,” he remarked.
According to a statement on Belmont University’s website, the college considers being asked to host the debate a huge honor.
“Belmont University is proud to be the host site for the October 22, 2020 Presidential Debate. Located two miles from the heart of downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont previously hosted the 2008 Town Hall Presidential Debate and will serve as one of four host locations during the 2020 election, three for presidential debates and one for a vice presidential debate. Belmont University President Dr. Bob Fisher said,
“Hosting the 2008 Town Hall Presidential Debate put Belmont University at the center of one of the most historic presidential elections in American history.,” he continued. “To be selected again is a great honor, and I’m confident that together—with the support of the Nashville community—we will once again exceed expectations in producing this internationally important event.”
Last month, Belmont University also declared their intent to host the Presidential debate, even amid COVID-19 concerns.
“Belmont University is honored, excited and fully committed to serve as host site for the third and final Presidential Debate on October 22, 2020,” the college said in a statement to The Tennessean. “In partnership with the Commission on Presidential Debates, all planning is moving forward with the safety of our campus community, the candidates, campaign staffs, members of the press and all other guests as the top priority. We look forward to partnering with the Mayor’s Office and other leading city officials to make this a safe and successful event for our city.”