Ronald Reagan Debate Series Utah

2027 — Salt Lake City, UT/US

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RR Debate Series

Event Description:

Welcome to the 2027 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: University of Utah | Salt Lake City, UT

• Date: May 8, 2027

• Check-in: Begins at 8:00 AM

• Regional Topic: Resolved: The primary responsibility for disaster preparedness and response in the United States should rest with state and local governments rather than the federal government.

Debate Q&A Training Sessions

Join us for interactive Q&A sessions with Debate Program National Finalists. Gain exclusive insights into mastering our unique presidential style of debate and learn valuable preparation techniques directly from the experts.

This is your chance to ask questions and connect with both the alumni and the Reagan Education Team Staff. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your debate skills! Recordings will be available following the Q&A Sessions if you are unable to attend.

Session 1

November 2, 2026 | 5:30 PM CT - Click here to register.

Session 2

February 8, 2027 | 5:30 PM CT - Click here to register

Session 3

April 5, 2027 | 5:30 PM CT - Click here to register

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.

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.

Regional Eligibility: The Utah Regional Championship is restricted to students who both reside in the state of Utah and attend an educational program located in Utah. Eligibility is based on the student's residence and school enrollment at the time of registration. Students who reside outside Utah or attend an educational program outside Utah must compete in an eligible regional competition in their area.

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 an alternate 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.