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INEC Sets Dates for High-Stakes 2026 Presidential Debates


Technicians conducting preparations for the first 2026 Presidential Election debate to be held on November 28, 2025 at the University of Leskovac auditorium in Leskovac. PHOTO| INEC

 By Angelika Hölzl |@AngelikaH

Leskovac, Strazia — The Independent National Election Commission (INEC) has formally approved the dates and venues for the two nationally televised presidential debates ahead of Eastoria’s 2026 election, setting the stage for what many analysts expect to be the most consequential political face-off in over a decade. 

The first debate will take place on November 28th, 2025, at the University of Leskovac, bringing the six contenders together in the nation’s capital. The second will be held on December 15th, 2025, at Belisce University in the Carinthia Region, giving voters outside the capital a chance to witness the candidates in action. 

INEC Chairperson Fabian Hofstätter said preparations were “ahead of schedule and designed to guarantee fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for each candidate.” In a statement released Saturday morning, he added, “These debates are central to our democratic process. We’re ensuring that every logistical, technical, and security detail is handled with precision so that the public can focus on what truly matters — the ideas, the policies, and the leadership qualities of those seeking the presidency.” 

All six presidential candidates have officially confirmed their participation. SDP nominee Michelle Schreiner called the debates “a vital moment for voters to compare visions and decide the country’s future direction.” 

Vice President Luka Wagner of the LDP said he welcomed “a substantive discussion on the nation’s economic recovery and security responsibilities.” 
 
DPP candidate Niklas Steiner noted he looked forward to “showing Eastorians that real reform is possible.” 

EPF nominee Alexander Huber described the debates as “a chance to stand up for patriotic values that have been neglected.” 

Ella Eder of the EDA said she plans to use the platform to “make the case for a more accountable, people-centered government.” 

ENC candidate Matteo Pichter emphasized the importance of the debates in “bringing regional voices and concerns to the national conversation.” 

Political analyst Dr. Hanna Löwenfeld, senior researcher at the Eastoria Policy Institute, said the stakes will be enormous. “These debates are likely to shape momentum heading into January. With voter interest unusually high and the race tightening, even a single standout performance could shift the national mood. Media viewership could break records.”

According to the latest polling, Michelle Schreiner leads with 46.8%, followed by Vice President Luka Wagner at 38.2%, with the other four candidates trailing significantly. Analysts believe Schreiner’s lead remains solid — but not insurmountable. Löwenfeld predicts the post-debate landscape could still shift dramatically. “If Wagner lands a strong performance in the second debate, especially on economic issues, the race could tighten to within the margin of error right before election day. 

Conversely, if Schreiner maintains composure and avoids missteps, she could effectively lock in her trajectory toward the presidency.” As Eastoria moves closer to voting day, all eyes now turn to the debate stage — where clarity, charisma, and command of policy may decide the nation’s next leader.

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