This year's Hometown Debates, in partnership with the North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership, focus on three North Carolina Council of State races. This week, the candidates for superintendent of public instruction from both major parties join us to debate issues related to the position at East Carolina University. 

During the debate, moderator Loretta Boniti will ask questions — alternating which candidate answers first. Each candidate will have up to 90 seconds to respond. Then, Loretta will have the option to ask a rebuttal question of either candidate — where they will have up to 60 seconds to respond. Each candidate will also get a minute-long closing statement. Candidates will not be allowed to go beyond the allotted time to answer a question. A coin is tossed backstage to determine which candidate answers the first question.