Join the conversation. Tune into the NYC debates.
When are the debates?
General Election Debate Schedule |
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| Mayoral – 1st General Election Debate | Thursday, October 16, 2025, 7pm |  |
| Mayoral – Leading Contender General Election Debate | Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 7pm |  |
Where can I watch the debates?
- Stayed tuned to learn more soon about how to watch the general election debates. No subscription needed. Link coming soon
- Make it a watch party! Use our 2025 Debates Watch Party Toolkit to help voters in your community get informed in a fun way.
- Missed the June Primary Election debates live? No problem! Stream them now on our Youtube channel.
2025 Sponsors
WNBC and NY1 are our broadcast partners for the citywide debates for the 2025 General Election voting season.
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WNBC in partnership with Telemundo 47 New York (WNJU), and POLITICO |
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NY1 in partnership with Spectrum Noticias, WNYC/Gothamist, THE CITY, New York Law School’s Center for New York City and State Law, The Museum of the City of New York, Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY, and John Jay College of Criminal Justice |
What are the debates?
- The New York City debates happen every four years alongside elections for citywide offices – Mayor, Comptroller, and Public Advocate.
Why do the debates matter?
- They’re a chance to learn about the candidates’ positions on the issues that matter to you. And they’re a unique opportunity to hear directly from the candidates in conversation with each other.
Who participates in the debates?
- Candidates must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the debate stage, including having raised and spent enough money to show they have broad support from New Yorkers.
What’s the connection to the Matching Funds Program?
- Participation in official city debates is mandatory for candidates participating in the Matching Funds Program running for citywide office.
- Both the Matching Funds Program and the debates provide opportunities for New Yorkers to get involved in local elections, by showing your support or getting more informed. The Matching Funds Program makes it easier for ordinary people to run for office by boosting small-dollar donations with public funds. The debates give candidates the opportunity to share their plans and priorities with voters, so voters can see which candidates line up with what matters to them.
