It's time to take off your "Make American Great Again" hats and put away your Ben Carson and Jeb! paraphernalia because finally, after two lively debates between the Republican presidential candidates, it's time for the Democrats to take the stage.
Tonight's event in Las Vegas is the first of six scheduled debates between the five candidates: Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, former Virginia Senator Jim Webb, and former Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee. (Sorry, all you Joe Biden fans out there, he's still not running for president.)
Even though the debate's moderator, CNN's Anderson Cooper, promises not to pit candidates against each other, like his colleague Jake Tapper did at the last GOP debate, there's still plenty of opportunity for feisty political jabs and tough talk.
So will Hillary and Bernie try to out-left each other? Will O'Malley's "all lives matter" comment come back to haunt him? And who the heck are Jim Webb and Lincoln Chafee?
Answers to all these questions tonight. Here are five places you can join in the festivities in the greater Phoenix area:
1. Paz Cantina — Facebook Event Page
1011 N. 3rd St.
Starts at 5 p.m.
Clinton? O'Malley? If you're undecided or on the fence about a candidate, this is the event for you. Co-hosted by the Maricopa County Democratic Party and the Maricopa County Young Democrats, this party promises a friendly and open environment. (With margaritas, of course...)
2. DeSoto Central Market — Facebook Event Page
915 N. Central Ave.
Get there about 5 p.m. to get a seat
This event is perfect for anyone who plans to chant "Bernie, Bernie, Bernie" every time the Vermont Senator speaks, and for those who don't mind others randomly yelling "Feel the Bern!" And if you go, don't forget to bust out your best Bernie attire because this is where the Arizona for Bernie Sanders campaign is watching the party.
3. Arizona State University — Facebook Event Page
Discovery Hall 250 - Tempe Campus
Starts about 5:15 p.m.
Sanders who? This event is perfect for any ASU student looking to learn a little more about that big, old election coming up next November, or who wants to impress that cute guy/gal in Wednesday's Intro to American politics class.
4. Social Box Neighborhood Eatery — Venue website
1371 North Alma School Road, Chandler
Arrive between 5 and 5:15 p.m.
Don't feel like driving all the way into downtown Phoenix during rush hour, then this is the place for you. The entire banquet hall has been rented out for the viewing party, so come one, come all!
5. East Valley Democratic Debate Watch — Facebook Event
1824 N. 103rd St., East Mesa
Starts at 5:30 p.m.
This event will be hosted by Arizona Women in Blue, a coalition of women's group, and is geared toward Clinton supporters. It's likely to be less rowdy than the DeSoto or Paz Cantina scenes, and bonus : event organizers will provide snacks.
"@TheFix: Tuesday's Democratic debate is missing just one thing: Donald Trump." True, can you think of anyone who wants to watch?
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 12, 2015
