When Senator John McCain (R-AZ) came to campus last week, he was the first 2008 presidential candidate to visit the University. With the election looming less than 18 months away, Public Affairs officials said they believed Stanford is an attractive venue for candidates and raised the possibility that the University could host a presidential debate.

“I think Stanford is already exceptionally well known, and as an institution we are committed to the free exchange of ideas,” said Senior Associate Vice President of Public Affairs Larry Horton. “You will find that we have had a range of candidates, and we don’t show any favoritism.”

Horton said Stanford is in a unique position to attract candidates as the election nears. One of the University’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Silicon Valley, which is home to high-profile campaign members and donors of nearly every major candidate.

Horton added that the influence of political groups on campus such as the Young Democrats and Young Republicans is also important. Also, since California is moving up the date of its primary, he said, there will likely be a record number of debates in the Golden State.

According to Executive Director of Public Affairs Elaine Enos, the University is just as likely to attract Democrats as Republicans. She added that Stanford could host a debate, but that she was unsure of the likelihood of such an event.

“There are so many variables that come into play,” she said. “I suspect as the campaign moves on, candidates will come forward, but as to a full-on debate with all the candidates, I can’t say.”