On Wednesday, October 7, 2026, Oregon’s two leading candidates for governor will face off in a live, one‑hour debate that will be broadcast across the state. Democratic Governor Tina Kotek and Republican State Senator Christine Drazan will discuss the issues that matter most to Oregonians, from the economy and public safety to education and natural‑resource stewardship.
Local partnership brings the debate to Southern Oregon
The event is being produced by KOBI‑TV/NBC5 in partnership with Southern Oregon University. It will originate from KOBI‑TV’s studios in Medford and will air on KOBI‑TV/NBC5, KOTI‑TV/NBC2, and stream live on KOBI5.com. The university’s involvement underscores the importance of civic engagement in the region, giving residents a direct line to the candidates’ positions.
How to watch
Viewers in Bend and the surrounding Central Oregon area can tune in to the debate on FOX or stream it via the KTVZ website, the KTVZ News app, or KTVZ+. Residents of Medford and the broader Southern Oregon market can watch on KOBI‑TV, KOTI‑TV, or the online stream at KOBI5.com. The broadcast is free, ensuring that all voters have access to the conversation.
Moderator and panel
Craig Smullin, KOBI‑TV/NBC5 News Executive Producer and Salem Bureau Chief, will moderate the discussion. The panel includes Joe Sullivan, KOBI‑TV/NBC5 News Director; Patsy Smullin, President and Owner of KOBI‑TV/NBC5 and KOTI‑TV/NBC2; and Dr. Rick Bailey, President of Southern Oregon University.
Why the debate matters
Both campaigns see the debate as a pivotal moment to present their vision for Oregon’s future. Governor Kotek is expected to highlight her administration’s work on expanding broadband access, protecting water resources, and investing in workforce training. Senator Drazan is likely to focus on fiscal responsibility, reducing regulatory burdens, and bolstering public‑safety funding.
Bob Wise, Vice President and General Manager of KOBI‑TV/NBC5 and KOTI‑TV/NBC2, called the event “historic” and emphasized that connecting voters directly with the candidates is a cornerstone of the station’s public‑service mission. He noted that KOBI‑TV has a two‑decade record of hosting televised gubernatorial and U.S. Senate debates, reinforcing the role of local media in informed civic participation.
Community impact
By bringing the debate to Southern Oregon, the partnership aims to ensure that voters in Medford, the Rogue Valley and surrounding communities receive the same level of information as those in Portland or the Willamette Valley. The live format encourages real‑time engagement, allowing viewers to discuss the candidates’ answers with family and friends after the broadcast.
For more information, contact Bob Wise at 541‑779‑5555 or via email at [email protected].
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
