KVMR is presenting what promises to be a lively debate on a potential Green Party presidential candidacy in 2004. The event will be broadcast live and may be available on other stations live as well.

California Green gubernatorial candidate Peter Camejo, a possible party presidential candidate, will face Norman Solomon, director of the Institute for Public Accuracy and author of "Target Iraq," on Thursday, January 29 at the Crest Theatre in downtown Sacramento, with activities beginning at 7 p.m. PST. The debate topic is "Resolved, The Greens should NOT run a candidate for President in 2004." Camejo is a lifelong activist with roots back to the student movements of the '60s, and Solomon is a veteran media analyst and political commentator/author.

A potential Green presidential candidacy has been a hot issue among progressives for months. Many moderate Democrats and independents have cited Ralph Nader's 2000 bid for the Oval Office as a key reason for George W. Bush's ascendance to the White House after that November election. They fear a Green run will give Bush the edge he needs to defeat the Democratic nominee. Norman Solomon has voiced strong opposition to a Green run for president.

Meanwhile, Peter Camejo contends that a vote for a Democrat -- even a progressive -- is a vote for a system that has failed Americans and American ideals. He also argues that a Green candidacy moves the debate to the left, which he says increases a Democrat's chance of defeating Bush.

At the debate, Camejo and Solomon will also field recorded questions from scholars and journalists familiar with the issue. Listeners can expect questions from Howard Zinn, Amy Goodman, Kevin Danaher and others. Audience members will also have an opportunity to ask questions of Camejo and Solomon as well.

Nevada City singing duo Paul Kamm and Eleanor MacDonald will perform a musical prelude before the debate begins. KVMR-FM is producing the debate, and KVMR and Left Coast Radio host Carolyn Crane will moderate.

Ticket prices: $12 General, $10 KVMR Member, $6 Low Income/Student
Outlets: KVMR Office, Herb Shop Records, Briar Patch, Record Connection, Cherry Records, Sacramento Natural Foods Coop, Crest Box Office and Tickets.com