Marquette Law School to host debates for Milwaukee Mayor, Wisconsin Supreme Court

March 6, 2020


MILWAUKEE — Ahead of election day on Tuesday, April 7, WISN 12 is hosting three different debates featuring the candidates for Milwaukee County Executive, Milwaukee Mayor and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Marquette University Law School is partnering with WISN 12 to present the debates for Milwaukee Mayor and Wisconsin Supreme Court.

March 11 at 7 p.m.

Milwaukee County Executive

Live from WISN 12’s studio

March 31 at 7 p.m.

Milwaukee Mayor

Live from Marquette Law School

April 3 at 7 p.m.

Wisconsin Supreme Court

Live from Marquette Law School

2019 Wisconsin Supreme Court Debate“These debates are substantial opportunities for voters in Milwaukee and Wisconsin to hear directly from the candidates for important offices, in a substantial conversation with one another and Mike Gousha,” says Dean Joseph D. Kearney. “Marquette Law School welcomes the opportunity once again to collaborate with WISN in civic service of this sort.”

On Tuesday, March 31, the Milwaukee mayoral debate will be held between incumbent Mayor Tom Barrett and State Sen. Lena Taylor. This debate, airing on WISN 12, will be the only debate for Milwaukee Mayor before election day on April 7. The debate for Wisconsin Supreme Court will occur on Friday, April 3, with incumbent Justice Dan Kelly and Judge Jill Karofsky. Both of these debates will take place at Marquette Law School, and be moderated by Mike Gousha, distinguished fellow in law and public policy at Marquette Law School.

Adrienne Pedersen, host of “Upfront” and anchor of “WISN 12 News This Morning” will field anchor the live broadcasts on WISN 12.

“These are three big races that will have a significant and long-lasting impact in our local communities and across the state,” said Jan Wade, president and general manager of WISN 12. “Hosting these debates through our Commitment 2020 coverage offers viewers, and more specifically voters, information that is crucial in making informed decisions at the ballot box.”

The debate for Milwaukee County Executive will occur on Wednesday, March 11, from 7-8 p.m., between State Rep. David Crowley and State Sen. Chris Larson. The debate will be moderated by Adrienne Pedersen, host of “Upfront” and anchor of “WISN 12 News This Morning,” and take place and air live from WISN 12’s studio.

Marquette Law School Debates

Due to limited space, the events will be ticketed and all seats have been reserved. News coverage of the debates and/or access to a pool feed is welcome and requires media credentials. Journalists must contact Kevin Conway at Marquette University, kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu, regarding credentials. All media must be on the credential list for access to the building the evening of a debate. Parking for live trucks must also be arranged in advance.


About Kevin Conway

Kevin Conway

Kevin is the associate director for university communication in the Office of University Relations. Contact Kevin at (414) 288-4745 or kevin.m.conway@marquette.edu