NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- There's an old saying about how the best-laid plans sometimes go asunder, which is exactly what they're worried about at Belmont University. With Friday’s first presidential debate in possible limbo, there's a chance that a delay or cancellation would have a major impact at the school.

Watch This Story

Crews at Ole Miss are moving forward with preparations for Friday's debate, even though there are strong suggestions it may be delayed. At the same time, university leaders said there's always the remote possibility that all of the hard work and money spent could be for nothing.

"I guess my first thought was concern for the folks at Ole Miss,” said Belmont President Bob Fisher. “I know how hard they've worked. I know how hard we've worked."

Belmont is scheduled to host the second debate on Oct. 7. Millions of dollars are being spent, in addition to countless hours of manpower. Despite the investment though, there are no guarantees.

The debate about the debate began Wednesday afternoon. Sen. John McCain is suspending his campaign to deal with the country's economic ills.

"I am directing my campaign to work with the [Sen. Barack] Obama campaign and the commission on Presidential debates,” McCain said, “to delay Friday night's debates until we have taken action to address this crisis."

Obama has a different take. He feels that Friday's debate is more important now than ever.

"With respect to the debates,” said Obama, “it's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who, in approximately 40 days, will be responsible for dealing with this mess."

As of now, plans are moving forward for the Oct. 7 debate.