The Presidential Debates: Frequently asked questions

Now that the dates for the two presidential debates have been nailed down – Jan. 10 for the Republicans, followed by the Democrats on Jan. 21 – you might be wondering how you can attend.

The answer is, you probably can’t, unless you have friends in the state Republican Party or the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus Institute. No tickets will be available for the public.

“Most debates are invitation only,” said Amie Lee, executive project coordinator with the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.

Who issues the invitations?

 The two sponsoring entities, the state Republicans for the Republican debate and the Congressional Black Caucus for the Democrats, control the majority of the invitations, Lee said. Other groups attached to the debates, such as the networks (Fox News for the Republicans, CNN for the Democrats), will also be allocated tickets, Lee said.

Will the volunteers be able attend?

Not necessarily, Lee said.

“We need tons of volunteers to make this thing run smoothly, but unfortunately that does not promise a ticket into the debate,” Lee said.

Much of the volunteer work will take place prior to the debates or off site, such as stuffing welcome bags to working as volunteer concierges at area hotels, Lee said. Another big need will be helping place directional signs for visitors all over town, and picking them afterward, Lee said.

How can I volunteer?

Call local volunteer coordinating organization Step Up!, (843) 349-6488, or go to www.myrtlebeachpresidentialdebates.com. That site is a portal to detailed information on both debates, Lee said, and also has an online sign-up form for volunteers.

Who will moderate the debates?

The networks are still making the final decision, Lee said, but Fox’s Brit Hume has been discussed for the Republicans, and CNN’s Wolf Blitzer for the Democrats.

How will questions be selected?

The networks will select the questions, Lee said.

Who will provide security?

Security will come from all over, Lee said – the State Law Enforcement Division, the Secret Service, Capitol Hill Police, local agencies and private security firms.