Scene on Campus
Candidates Meet in Primary Debate On June 13, seven Republican candidates for the U.S. presidency met before a worldwide television audience in Saint Anselm College’s Sullivan Arena. More than 300 journalists were on campus for the Republican Presidential Primary Debate, as well as 100 or so staff members of CNN, which sponsored the debate along with WMUR-TV and the New Hampshire Union Leader. CNN’s John King moderated the debate, which included declared candidates Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum, Tim Pawlenty, Ron Paul, Newt Gingrich, and Herman Cain. Michele Bachman declared her candidacy during the debate. About 50 students worked for the New Hampshire Institute of Politics and news organizations, even serving as stand-ins for candidates during lighting and camera preparation. They worked as personal assistants for on-air talent; served as drivers, couriers, set-up crew; and met network executives and producers. 20