Senate Candidates Debate in RS Fuels Information Search

A crucial event for Rio Grande do Sul voters is generating strong interest and spurring information searches about the Senate hopefuls. This Thursday (17), Central Grupo Sinos de Eleições is hosting the second debate with Senate candidates, offering the public a chance to learn about the contenders' proposals.

The debate of Rio Grande do Sul senators

The second debate organized by Central Grupo Sinos de Eleições brings together eight Senate candidates on the morning of Thursday (17). The gathering serves as a platform for party‑affiliated candidates with representation in the National Congress, as required by electoral law, to present their ideas and discuss issues relevant to the state.

Who are the participants

The confirmed candidates for the debate are Frederico Antunes (PSD), Manuela d’Ávila (PSOL), Marcel van Hattem (Novo), Milton Cardoso (PSDB), Pimenta (PT), Renato Jaguarão (Cidadania), Rigotto (MDB) and Sanderson (PL). The initial speaking order was determined by draw, with Manuela speaking first, followed by Rigotto, Frederico, Jaguarão, Van Hattem, Pimenta, Cardoso and Sanderson.

Structure and topics on the agenda

The debate is divided into three blocks, aiming to give dynamics and depth to the discussions. In the first block, each candidate will have 2 minutes to introduce themselves and deliver an opening greeting to the audience. The second block will consist of two rounds of free‑topic questions and answers, where the moderator will draw the name of the person asking the question, who then chooses whom to debate with. Each Q&A sequence will last 5 minutes, with candidates managing the time and not exceeding 2½ minutes per response.

In the third and final block, each candidate answers a question prepared by the production team on regional‑interest topics. Themes include health, climate resilience, mobility, education, economic development, violence against women, sanitation and Rio Grande do Sul's debt. In this block, the candidate selects who comments, with 1½ minutes for the answer, 1½ minutes for the comment and 1 minute for a rebuttal. At the end, each candidate will have 2 minutes for a final message to voters.

Broadcast and public access

The debate is broadcast live on 103.3 FM and, in video, through Grupo Sinos' digital platforms, including the abcmais.com website, YouTube and Facebook. This extensive coverage allows the electorate to closely follow the discussions and proposals of the Senate candidates.

Other meetings at Central Grupo Sinos

Besides the Senate hopefuls' debate, Central Grupo Sinos de Eleições also hosted a meeting with vice‑governor candidates. On Wednesday (16), ABC 103.3 FM's studio welcomed Claudio Diaz (PSDB), running mate of Marcelo Maranata (PSDB), Edegar Pretto (PT), running mate of Juliana Brizola (PDT) and Ernani Polo (PSD), running mate of Gabriel Souza (MDB). Silvana Covatti (PP), running mate of Zucco (PL), did not attend the event. Over three blocks, the vice candidates presented proposals and explained why voters should choose their tickets in the October election.

With information from abc+.