First 2020 Democratic debates time, place, candidates and everything else to know
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The road to the 2020 presidential election is heating up, starting with the first Democratic primary debate this week.
Top candidates — ranging from former Vice President Joe Biden to Sen. Elizabeth Warren to Mayor Pete Buttigieg — will take the stage in Miami starting Wednesday.
Read on for a look at everything you need to know ahead of the much-anticipated face off.
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What’s the schedule?
The first Democratic primary debate is split over two nights — the first taking place on Wednesday, June 26 and then Thursday, June 27.
The debates kick off at 9 p.m. E.T. in Miami, Florida.
A total of 20 candidates — 10 each night — will debate. Candidates were randomly selected to appear on the first or second night.
Who’s debating when?
On June 26, the following candidates will debate:
New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio
Former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julián Castro
Former Maryland congressman John Delaney
Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee
Minn. Sen. Amy Klobuchar
Former Texas congressman Beto O'Rourke
Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan
Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren
On June 27, the following candidates will debate:
Former Vice President Joe Biden
Colo. Sen. Michael Bennet
Mayor of South Bend, Ind. Pete Buttigieg
New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand
Calif. Sen. Kamala Harris
Colo. Gov. John Hickenlooper
Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders
Calif. Rep. Eric Swalwell
Author Marianne Williamson
Businessman Andrew Yang
How did they qualify?
Candidates qualified to debate by having 65,000 donors contribute to their campaign, with 200 donors from at least 20 different states, per PBS. Candidates could also qualify if they receive “1 percent of support in three polls the DNC deems as qualified,” according to The Washington Post.
Who didn’t qualify?
Four candidates did not make the cut.
That includes Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton, the Mayor or Miramar, Fla., Wayne Messam, Steve Bullock, the Gov. of Montana and former Alaska Sen. Mike Gravel.
How can I watch?
Viewers can tune into NBC News, MSNBC and Telemundo to watch the debate.
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What are the rules?
During the debate, candidates will have one minute to answer questions and 30 seconds to respond to follow-ups, per NBC.
No opening statements will be given but the candidates can share closing remarks.