NORMAL, Ill. — Illinois State University’s Student Government Association hosted a bipartisan debate Thursday, bringing together the ISU College Democrats and College Republicans to discuss issues important to students, including tariffs, abortion, campus safety, and local voting concerns.
Each side rotated three debaters who were timed by moderators as they presented arguments and rebuttals. ISU College Republicans President Ross Vancil said the event helped foster respectful conversation.
“It is always great to come together to talk to the Democrats and have civil discourse about political topics that are often divisive,” Vancil said.
Campus safety was one area where both groups found common ground. Vancil said the discussion showed potential for collaboration in the future.
The debate attracted a strong turnout from both parties. While there were moments of mild heckling, the event remained peaceful. Some students said they were relieved the discussion stayed respectful.
“I was really scared things were going to turn out bad,” said Asha Wallace of the ISU Democrats. “I am glad we were able to have a civil debate with facts shared on both sides.”
The organizations plan to host another debate in the spring, coinciding with the midterm primary elections.
Reporter Zakkary Clark contributed to this story.