The Lubbock County Democratic Party is hosting both, working with Powered by People and Texas Tech Democrats. Organizers say the goal is to bring Texas Tech students and other Lubbock residents together so voters are engaged, informed and ready for upcoming elections.
Thursday's event is at The Garden near downtown Lubbock. Doors open at 5 p.m., and the program runs from 6 p.m. To 9 p.m. O'Rourke will speak, along with Kyle Rable, a candidate for U.S. Congress, and Malik Williams, a candidate for Texas House District 83. Live music and a photo with O'Rourke are also on the schedule.
Friday's stop is part of the statewide "Every Campus Counts" tour. It runs from 9 a.m. To noon in the free-speech area by the Student Union Building at Texas Tech and is open to students.
Thursday night is family-friendly, and it comes with perks. The first 50 attendees get tickets for a free beer, wine or non-alcoholic drink. Organizers will also draw for signed Beto merchandise and H-E-B gift cards, and winners must be present. Staff from Powered by People and the Lubbock County Democratic Party will help people check their voter status and register if they're eligible.
Getting in at The Garden takes a voter registration check, not a ticket.