By ERRIN HAINES
Associated Press

HOUSTON (AP) - Thursday's presidential debate isn't just an opportunity for the leading Democratic candidates to make their case to voters.

It's also a chance to highlight Texas Southern University and the role of historically black colleges and universities heading into 2020.

The event marks the first time this cycle that a high-profile debate will happen at an HBCU.

The colleges, many located across the South in Super Tuesday and other early primary states, have become an important stop on the campaign trail this cycle.

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