Spectrum News 1: UC watch party goes virtual for debate
UC faculty led virtual debate watch party to engage Bearcat voters
Spectrum News 1 covered the University of Cincinnati’s virtual watch party for the presidential debate which took place Sept. 29. The event was held for UC Bearcats: faculty, staff, students and alumni. Hundreds participated and Bearcat voters got the chance to react to the candidates in real time.
Before the event, a "Bearcat expert panel" provided a nonpartisan analysis of the race. Afterwards, the panel took questions from voters before attendees voted for who they think won the debate.
The watch party was hosted by Richard Harknett, professor and head of UC’s Department of Political Science, and three other political science faculty.
"It seemed like the chat rooms were active and people behaved themselves. So, I think they stayed within the context of what we were hoping," says Harknett.
>Read more about the watch party and Spectrum News 1 coverage.
Featured image at top of Richard Harknett. Photo/UC Content + Brand/Kelley
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Why is it so difficult to own a restaurant in Cincinnati?
May 1, 2026
WLWT turned to UC Lindner College of Business economics professor David Brasington for a look into the factors that make restaurant ownership so difficult in today's market.
Biggest crowd for the biggest graduation
May 1, 2026
The University of Cincinnati celebrates a record Spring 2026 commencement, honoring 7,800+ graduates with ceremonies at Fifth Third Arena and Nippert Stadium.
BearcatGPT: UC becomes first Ohio university to offer AI platform
April 30, 2026
Local news media highlight UC's private AI platform, BearcatGPT, that offers a suite of tools for students, faculty and staff.