WJFW to host two live debates in 7th Congressional District race

RHINELANDER —WJFW Newswatch 12 will host two live debates in July featuring candidates seeking to represent Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District.

The first debate, featuring Republican candidates, will take place Tuesday, July 7, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Confirmed participants are Michael Alfonso, Jessi Ebben, Niina Baum, and Kevin Hermening.

The second debate, featuring Democratic candidates, will be held Tuesday, July 14, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Confirmed participants are Chris Armstrong, Ginger Murray and Fred Clark.
Both debates will be broadcast live on WJFW and will include a 10-minute intermission midway through the program. They will also be streamed on our Facebook page WJFW Newswatch 12.

The debates are designed to give voters an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on a wide range of issues and to better understand their priorities, values, and vision for the district. Candidates will participate in opening and closing statements, answer questions from the moderator, and have opportunities to respond to issues raised during the discussion.

WJFW anchor Dan Hagen will serve as moderator for both debates.

“WJFW is honored to provide this important service to the voters of Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District,” said Steve Shanks, general manager for WJFW. “Both the Republican and Democratic primaries feature fresh faces and these debates will provide a rare opportunity for voters to hear directly from the candidates. Our goal is to provide a fair, informative forum that helps viewers compare the candidates’ ideas, priorities and leadership styles before they cast their ballots.”

WJFW News Director Geoff Weller noted that the last time Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District held an open‑seat election — with no incumbent on the ballot — was the Special Election in 2020.

“District 7 voters deserve clear answers on where each candidate stands on important issues. Two live, 90-minute debates will add clarity to this race,” Weller said.
WJFW Newswatch 12 is the Northwoods’ local television news leader, serving viewers across northern Wisconsin with award-winning local news, weather, sports and community programming.