Washington (CNN) - The Arizona Republican Party and CNN will co-host a GOP presidential debate on December 1 in Arizona – a crucial state in the Republican nominating process.
"Arizona is a key state that will play a pivotal role in helping Republicans choose their presidential nominee," said Sam Feist, CNN Washington bureau chief and senior vice president. "CNN is honored to provide voters in Arizona and around the country an opportunity to hear the GOP candidates present their vision for the future."
Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said she "can't remember a more critical election" than the 2012 race for the White House.
"When it comes to some of the hallmark issues facing our country – whether illegal immigration, the housing crisis or the ongoing power struggle between the states and federal government – Arizona is at the forefront," said Brewer, a prominent Republican governor. "These are national issues, certainly. But Arizonans live and breathe them."
"So, I'm thrilled that the Arizona Republican Party and CNN have reached agreement on a debate, and optimistic that when the candidates come to Arizona, they'll meet our voters and offer meaningful solutions to the problems facing our state and nation."
Arizona will hold its primary on February 28, 2012.
The Arizona GOP and CNN will release further details about the event at a later date.
CNN is co-hosting the Western Republican Presidential Debate with the Western Republican Leadership Conference on October 18 in Las Vegas.