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AARP Virginia Announces 2026 The People’s Debate for U.S. Senate Race

Invitations Extended to Candidates

AARP

Published August 05, 2026

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RICHMOND _ AARP Virginia announced Aug. 5 that it will sponsor The People’s Debate in 2026 for this year’s U.S. Senate election. AARP Virginia’s partner for the event is Richmond’s WTVR-CBS 6, which will host the debate on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture.

“AARP Virginia has worked for decades to make sure voters have the information they need to make their own choices when casting their ballots,” AARP Virginia State Director Jim Dau wrote in a letter today announcing the debate plans and extending the debate invitation to U.S. Senator Mark Warner and retired Army Maj. Gen. Bert Mizusawa, who was selected as the Republican nominee in the Aug. 4 Primary Election.

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The People’s Debate is Virginia’s oldest and most widely broadcast statewide debate.

“AARP is focused on empowering voters 50-plus with trusted information so they can make informed decisions,” Dau said. “The members of Congress we elect in 2026 will be making critical decisions on strengthening Social Security’s long-term solvency and supporting family caregivers. The People’s Debate will give Virginia voters the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on these issues.”

AARP Virginia extended formal invitations to The People’s Debate to the candidates and their parties today. Criteria for eligibility include: the candidate will appear on the general election ballot; have a staffed campaign headquarters; and, within 45 days of the event, have a minimum of 15 percent voter support in at least one statistically valid poll conducted by news media or another independent organization (free of ties to a political party or candidate).

AARP Virginia began hosting The People’s Debate in 2006 for all gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races. AARP does not endorse or contribute money to candidates, political parties or campaigns.