The Debate Club is preparing for an upcoming competition this weekend.

Some of the topics among a list of 15 that will be discussed at the event include the destruction of property following recent rioting, the mandatory mask order in Oregon’s Lincoln County – and possible racial discrimination involved with it – and the punishment, if any, that “Central Park Karen” should face.

According to the Debate Club’s coach, Associate Professor of Philosophy Grant Julin, the team has been training hard and is ready for the competition.

“We have been meeting every Friday afternoon over Zoom since September, working through all 15 cases,” said Julin. “The students have been very dedicated and I am proud of the work they have put in.”

Julin said he believes his team has a real shot at advancing to the national debate finals this year.

“I honestly feel this is the most prepared we have been since we started the team six years ago,” said Julin. “We have some experienced debaters on the team, and the new recruits this year are strong.”