LAS VEGAS (AP) — The latest on the Democratic presidential debate at the Wynn hotel in Las Vegas (all times local):

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3:45 p.m.

The Democratic candidates for president are making their final preparations for their party's first debate of the 2016 race for the White House.

The candidates and their staffs are on-site at the Wynn hotel in Las Vegas, taking walkthroughs of the debate hall and preparing for what's expected to be a policy-heavy confrontation.

Huma Abedin (HOO'-muh AB'-uh-deen), a top adviser to front-runner Hillary Rodham Clinton, has tested out the candidate's podium at center stage.

Sen. Bernie Sanders also tested out his spot, and former Maryland governor Martin O'Malley took a moment to get a feel for the debate hall.

Also onstage will be former Sen. Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island and former Sen. Jim Webb of Virginia.

Not on stage: Vice President Joe Biden, who is considering joining the contest and is said to be watching the show from home.

The debate begins at 6 p.m. Pacific time on CNN.