ABC-owned WLS-Channel 7 is partnering with the League of Women Voters and the Illinois Broadcasters Association to air two commercial-free debates prior to the November elections. "Good Morning America" co-anchor and ABC News chief political correspondent George Stephanopoulos will moderate a debate between Illinois senatorial candidates on Oct. 19. that will air on Channel 7 from 10:35 to 11:35 p.m.

WLS anchor/reporter Ron Magers will moderate a second debate between gubernatorial candidates on Oct. 20, that also will air from 10:35 to 11:35 p.m. In addition to the air times on Channel 7, both debates will air live on WLS digital channel 7.2 at 7 p.m. and stream live at www.abc7chicago.com. The debates will take place at the WLS-Channel 7 studios at 190 N. State St.

During both debates, a panel of journalists will pose questions to the candidates. For the debate featuring senatorial candidates, the panelists will include WLS political editor Charles Thomas, Better Government Association executive director Andy Shaw and Daily Herald political reporter Kerry Lester. The panel debate with gubernatorial candidates will include Shaw and Thomas, with a third panelist to be announced.