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Ohio university’s reversal on hosting debate doesn’t deter UNLV, convention authority

CARSON CITY — Wright State University in Ohio on Tuesday pulled out of hosting the first presidential debate this fall because of concerns over costs and security.

But those issues are not dampening the enthusiasm of UNLV and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority to showcase Southern Nevada’s desert metropolis when it hosts the final debate in October, likely between Republican nominee Donald Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

“Las Vegas is known for its ability to successfully host large-scale events, and we are working closely with a variety of community partners to deliver an exceptional experience for everyone involved,” UNLV media relations director Tony Allen said in response to an email query.

“We are honored to host this debate — and the numerous educational activities surrounding it — and we’re excited to showcase our university and the Las Vegas community to the world this fall.”

The Commission on Presidential Debates announced the first debate, scheduled for Sept. 26, will be moved to Hofstra University on Long Island, New York. The second debate will be Oct. 9 at Washington University in St. Louis, followed by the final debate Oct. 19 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.

UNLV partnered with the c in March 2015 to make the bid to the debate commission. The authority’s board of directors agreed to make $4 million available to cover expenses for the event, which is expected to draw hundreds of delegates, thousands of journalists and generate as much as $50 million worth of publicity for UNLV and Las Vegas.

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