Eight Democrats vying to replace Graham Platner on the ballot against U.S. Sen. Susan Collins were set to debate for the first time tonight in a contest hosted by News Center Maine, the first real test of a nominating process without precedent in state history.
The station split the field into two hours based on June primary performance: Shenna Bellows, Troy Jackson, Nirav Shah and Jordan Wood debate from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by David Costello, Elizabeth Dickerson, Dan Kleban and Ashley Webb from 8 to 9 p.m. Another four candidates declared for the race after a deadline imposed by the NBC affiliate.
While the general public can watch the candidates tonight, roughly 600 delegates to a specially called state convention will pick the nominee in Bangor on July 25.
Follow along here for updates throughout the night.