Ben Shapiro and Van Jones Headline Desert Town Hall Finale in Indian Wells

The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series wrapped up its 2026 season with a high-profile discussion featuring Ben Shapiro and Van Jones in Indian Wells.

Nearly 2,000 attendees gathered at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort and Spa for the final event of the season, where the two speakers took the stage for a wide-ranging conversation.

Shapiro, a bestselling author and co-founder of The Daily Wire, joined Jones, a CNN host and founder of Dream Machine, to discuss key political and social issues.

Ahead of the main event, local high school students participating in the Youth Town Hall program had a chance to meet both speakers in a smaller setting. Students were able to ask questions and gain exposure to perspectives beyond the Coachella Valley.

Participants said the experience was valuable, noting that living in a smaller community can sometimes limit exposure to broader viewpoints, making opportunities like this especially meaningful.

The Desert Town Hall Speaker Series, now in its 33rd year, has brought a wide range of influential voices to the valley, including past speakers such as George H.W. Bush, Condoleezza Rice, and Desmond Tutu.

Organizers say the series continues to provide a platform for dialogue, education, and community engagement.

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