Fort Walton Beach student places 4th at national debate championship

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. ( WKRG ) — A Fort Walton Beach High School student placed fourth at the Incubate Debate 2024 National Championship in Jacksonville earlier this month.

There were 89 students from 23 counties engaging in competitive debates on several issues including the Trump January 6 federal case, the conflict between China and Taiwan, college DEI programs and the climate emergency.

Christian Bailey, of Fort Walton Beach High School, placed fourth overall in the National Debate Championship. He debated college DEI programs and whether there is a climate emergency in the competition’s final round.

“It is truly inspiring to witness the diligence and dedication of these students, who have showcased exceptional speech and debate skills while maintaining a high degree of civility and respect for differing opinions,” Okaloosa County Schools Superintendent Marcus Chambers said. “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Christian and commend him for this outstanding achievement.”

A distinguished group of judges was on the panel who evaluated Bailey’s performance:

• Bill de Blasio, the 109th Mayor of New York City
• Stephen Asoli, the Director of Admissions at the University of Austin
• Dr. Peter Boghossian, the Founder of the National Progress Alliance
• Simon Hankinson, the Senior Fellow at the Heritage Foundation
• Clea Conner, the CEO of Open to Debate

Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio called Bailey “one of the best speakers I’ve ever seen” and ranked him No. 1 on the ballot.

Bailey’s performance earned him several accolades and $500.

His coach and Fort Walton Beach High School debate teacher Katrina Brownsberger also received $500.

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