U.S. Senate Candidates Face Off in Debate Tonight

Five candidates seeking the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by Secretary of State John Kerry will debate for the first time in one place tonight in Needham.

The two Democrats and three Republicans vying for the vacated position will face each other in two separate, 30-minute debates at the Channel 5 studio. The event, moderated by R.D. Sahl, is sponsored by the Boston Media Consortium, and will air live from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

On the Democratic side, U.S. Rep. Ed Markey (D-Malden) will square off against U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-South Boston). In the latest UMass Lowell poll, Markey leads Lynch 50 percent to 29.5 percent, according to the Boston Globe. WBUR/Mass Inc. puts them significantly closer, with Markey up by just seven points.

The three Republican contenders are state Rep. Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk), former U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan and former Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez.

Needham resident Brett Rhyne, a write-in Democratic candidate, was not confirmed to participate, according to WCVB, nor was Independent Jack E. Robinson.

The last day to register to vote, change a voting address or change party affiliation for the April 30 primary is April 10. Are you not sure where or how to register to vote or change your party affiliation? Here's everything you need to know, courtesy of Secretary of State Galvin's office.