2025 NYC Candidate Debates

Join the conversation. Tune into the NYC debates. 

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.

When are the debates? 

•  In citywide election years, like this year, debates happen just before June’s primary election and November’s general election. 

Who participates in the debates?

• Candidates must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the debate stage, including raising and spending 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.

How do the debates work?

• The first debate is for any qualifying candidates.
• The second debate is for “leading contenders.” (The definition for “leading contenders” changes each election, but the goal is always to have a debate between candidates with broad support.)

For each of the three citywide offices, there could be up to six debates per year:

• 2 Democratic primary debates
• 2 Republican primary debates
• 2 general election debates 

Independent candidates (those not affiliated with a party) and candidates who are not participating in the Matching Funds Program may be invited to participate in the debates if they meet the other eligibility criteria but are not required to do so.

*If there are not enough competitive candidates, debates may be canceled.

Debates Schedule 

Watch the 2025 Debates, co-sponsored by the New York City Campaign Finance Board, to learn more about the candidates on your ballot. Schedule coming soon! 

2025 Debates Program Sponsors To Be Announced.