Stephens, Auxier to debate impeachment of Trump next week

A well known SIU professor and the mayor of Murphysboro will debate the possibility of impeaching President Trump during a special Constitution Day event next week on campus.

The public debate, organized by the SIU Debate Team, will feature Mayor Will Stephens and Professor Randy Auxier. Auxier will present a pro- impeachment case, while Stephens will argue against impeachment. Both debaters have been coached on their arguments by SIU debate coach Todd Graham.

The event is set to begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17 at Guyon Auditorium at Morris Library.

Stephens was elected mayor of Murphysboro in 2013, and then again for a second term in 2017. He previously sat on the Jackson County Board. Auxier made headlines in 2018 when he was the Green Party candidate for the 12th Congressional District.

"I'm stoked about this year's Constitution Day debate," Graham said. "Having two experienced local political experts is creating quite the buzz. I'm delighted that Dr. Auxier and Mayor Stephens agreed to debate this important and timely topic. But instead of quick sound bites, SIU gets the chance to cover the topic in more depth. I'm hoping for a big turnout."

The annual Constitution Day Debate is free and open to the public. After the debate, audience members are invited to enjoy refreshments in the Morris Library Rotunda, and to speak with Stephens and Auxier.