NBC will air the debate as a special broadcast of Meet the Press, moderated by the show's host David Gregory. At the same time, it will stream live on Facebook "to create an interactive experience."
Starting Monday, users can start discussions and post questions for the debate at either the Meet the Press or US Politics Facebook pages. Some of the questions posted on the pages will be used in the debate.
As the longest running show on television, Meet the Press is no stranger to hosting political discussions. Facebook is a bit newer to the role, but its importance as a political platform was highlighted by President Barack Obama's successful efforts to use Facebook and other social media to mobilize young voters in the 2008 election.
Since then, Facebook -- and social media in general -- has become so much of a political tool that it hosted a live discussion with the president earlier this year. The upcoming debate in New Hampshire won't be the GOP's first debate that involves social media. The candidates are also scheduled for a Twitter debate on July 20.
Facebook first played a role in debate coverage in the 2008 elections, when it worked with ABC to involve its users. In that partnership, Facebook users were able to participate in Debate Groups, view behind-the-scenes footage and view Facebook polls, but this is the first time that the debates will be live streamed on the platform.