Ronald Reagan Debate Series North Dakota

2026 — Bismarck, ND/US

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RR Debate Series

Event Description:

Welcome to the 2026 Ronald Reagan Debate Series!

Hosted by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute, this competition emphasizes effective communication, civility, and persuasive leadership—without debate jargon. Our format is accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for all participants.

To learn more about the Reagan presidential style of debate, visit: www.reaganfoundation.org/debate

Tournament Information

• Location: Legacy High School, Bismarck, ND

• Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026

• Check-in: Begins at 8:00 AM

• Regional Topic: Resolved: As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary of self-governance, the Electoral College should be replaced by the popular vote in presidential elections.

Pre-tournament Zoom information sessions will be held prior to the event. Dates and links will be posted here and emailed to registered coaches.

Regional Competition Rules

Competitors are allowed to compete in one geographic regional competition and/or the nationwide online regional competition.

Each student at an in-person qualifying competition must be under the immediate supervision of an adult who may be their coach, parent, or other adult approved by the high school administration. Students competing online must have a supervising adult judging and/or otherwise immediately available.

A contestant who does not appear at the scheduled time to speak will forfeit. Only students enrolled in grades 9-12 are allowed to compete. Middle school students are not

eligible to compete.

Competitors located in other regions of the world are welcome to compete, but the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is only able to cover transportation expenses for travel originating within the 50 United States.

After competing in the final round of debate at the regional level, one winner from each region will qualify for the National Championship. Each finalist will receive flight and hotel room for themselves and one chaperone.

National Championship

If a contestant is unable to participate in the National Championship, it will be up to the discretion of the regional partner and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute to determine analternate participant for the national championship.

Each student at the national championship must be under the immediate supervision of an adult who may be his/her coach, parent, or other adult approved by the high school administration and acceptable to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute.