Hofstra University gets ready for presidential debate

From lights to lecterns, finishing touches were made on the debate stage, Sunday night, at Hofstra University.  The final preps were in place hours before the candidates speak to a live audience and millions more people at home.

Michael Chiappetta will be watching the debate.

“It’ll be interesting to see what they have to say to the general audience rather than speaking to a primary audience,” Chiappetta said.  The UB grad is continuing his education at Hofstra.  He wants to hear the candidates really speak on the issues. 

“I think there’s a lot of noise, a lot of talking at each other but not to the audience about what you’re going to be doing, so I’m hoping we can get something from it,” Chiappetta said.

The candidates will be questioned for 90 minutes.  Hillary Clinton will be questioned first.

“After each question, each candidate will have two minutes to respond and then there will be a ten-minute discussion phase,” said Peter Eyre, Senior Advisor for the Commission on Presidential Debates.

It’ll be the moderator’s job to keep the conversation on track. 

Hope Lefko will be ushering audience members to their seats, making sure they’re quiet during the debate.

“I cant explain it.  It’s super exciting and it’s incredible that I get this opportunity to really be involved,” Lefko said.

This is the third debate in eight years the Hofstra community has been involved with.  But this one seems to be different for some students.

Jersey barriers are blocking the road. Barricades are being brought in by the truck load.  Police are on guard, questioning anyone without credentials. 

“There’s a lot more tension,” said Lauren Morgan.  “With all the attacks, definitely people are watching.  The world is watching.”