Ohio - The 2022 campaign season is kicking into high gear, as the Ohio Debate Commission announces they'll host primary debates for candidates from both sides of the U.S. Senate and Ohio Governor races.

Candidates will head to Central State University, an HBCU near Dayton, to go head to head to debate the issues most important to Ohioans.

"The fact these debates will be held on the campus of an HBCU speaks volumes to the value of these institutions," said Eddie Harrell, Jr., ODC Board Member. "Furthermore, this partnership illustrates ODC’s commitment to making sure all communities in Ohio are informed and engaged in the electoral process."

The Republican candidate debates will be held March 28th, followed by the Democratic candidates on March 29th.

Republicans vying for the U.S. Senate nomination include State Senator Matt Dolan, businessman Mike Gibbons, former chair of the Ohio Republican Party Jane Timken, former State Treasurer Josh Mandel, Bill Graham, Neil Patel, Mark Pukita, and author J.D. Vance.

The Democratic candidates for the same office are Congressman Tim Ryan, Morgan Harper, Traci Johnson, and LaShondra Tinsley.

For Ohio Governor, the democratic candidates include former Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley and former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley.

Those seeking the Governor's office on the Republican side are incumbent Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio farmer Joe Blystone, former State Representative Ron Hood, and former Congressman Jim Renacci.

“We are thrilled to combine the candidates’ passion for serving Ohio with our ability to conduct high quality debates and help Ohio voters become well-informed before they cast their votes,” said ODC Executive Director Jill Zimon.

Information about how the public can submit questions to the candidates and register for tickets to the event will be available on the ODC website in the coming days.