Gov. Ned Lamont and Republican challenger state Sen. Ryan Fazio will face off Thursday in their first televised debate of Connecticut's 2026 gubernatorial election, giving voters a chance to hear from both candidates before Election Day.
The hourlong debate, hosted by WFSB and CT Insider, begins Thursday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. at WFSB's studios in Rocky Hill. It will air live on WFSB Channel 3 and stream on WFSB+.
Lamont, a Democrat seeking a third term, and Fazio, a Republican state senator from Greenwich, are expected to address issues including Connecticut's cost of living, taxes, housing affordability, jobs and energy prices, according to CT Insider.
WFSB anchor Erin Connolly will moderate the debate, with questions from WFSB chief political reporter Susan Raff and CT Insider columnist Dan Haar.
The debate comes as early voting begins Monday, Oct. 19, across Connecticut.
Thursday's debate will be the first of two scheduled televised matchups between the candidates before the Nov. 3 election.
The second debate is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, hosted by WTNH and the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities during CCM's annual convention.
How To Watch Thursday's Debate
● Date: Thursday, Oct. 22
● Time: 7 p.m.
● Television: WFSB Channel 3
● Streaming: WFSB+ and CT Insider
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