HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — Hartford is making a big play to host a 2020 presidential debate.
It’s been more than 20 years since the capital city held a debate — the last of which was between President Bill Clinton and Senator Bob Dole in 1996.
Now it is among six U.S. cities that are finalists, and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving (HFPG) is pitching in to help try and make it happen.
The organization is committing $1 million to secure the selection of the city as host for one of the four presidential or two vice presidential debates next year.
“We have had individuals from all political persuasions reach out, offer themselves and their support,” said Jay Williams with the HFPG. “We have had some corporate excitement, we have even had some discussions with some national organizations.”
“We would welcome the candidates and it would be an opportunity for us to showcase our capital city and all of the good things that are happening here,” said Governor Ned Lamont.
==
Free download: Access Connecticut breaking news, weather, stream newscasts live and more on-the-go with News 8 alerts directly to your phone.