First Democratic presidential primary debate to be held in Miami in June

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The first Democratic presidential primary debate of the 2020 cycle will be held in Miami, Florida, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) announced Thursday. The debate will take place on back-to-back nights on June 26 and 27 and broadcast live on NBC, MSNBC and Telemundo, which will have real-time Spanish translations.

"Miami is a vibrant and dynamic city that reflects the values and diversity of the Democratic Party. I couldn't imagine a better setting for our first debate," DNC Chair Tom Perez said in a statement. "Throughout every step of this process, we've focused on empowering the grassroots and ensuring that we hold the most transparent, inclusive, and fair primary in our party's history."

Florida is a key swing state and helped hand President Trump his victory in 2016. Miami has a large Hispanic population, a diverse demographic which often leans left but can swing toward Republicans in Florida. Republican Rick Scott clinched his victory in the 2018 Senate race by winning 48 percent of the state's Hispanic vote.

There will be 12 primary debates in total, with CNN hosting the second at an unspecified date and location in July. The DNC made waves earlier in March for announcing it would not partner with Fox News for a debate.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/first-democratic-2020-primary-debate-to-be-held-in-miami-on-june-26-and-27/