We know that it takes two to tango in a debate, so it’s not uncommon to hear campaigners come up with different ideas on what it takes to get everyone on stage.
In the 7th Congressional District in the Lehigh Valley, the incumbent Democratic congressman Representative Susan Wild and the Republican candidate Ryan Mackenzie can agree on one thing – they are ready to debate. Now comes the next step.
Mackenzie, a state representative from the 187th Legislative District, threw the first stone, saying he had “agreed in principle” to participate in two debates with Wild on Sept. 11 and 12. The first event will be hosted by WFMZ-TV 69’s “Business Matters,” and the second by Blue Ridge Communication TV (BRCTV13). Both debates are scheduled to take place before Pennsylvania’s mail-in ballots are sent to voters.
“I am proud of my record of standing up for the people of Pennsylvania as a state representative, and I look forward to discussing the important issues facing Congress, such as curbing overspending and inflation in Washington, addressing illegal immigration, growing our economy to create good-paying jobs, and advancing sound policies to restore America’s standing in the world,” said Mackenzie. “I hope Representative Wild will join these debates so voters can see the stark differences between her extreme positions and failed policies of the past four years compared to my proven record and positive agenda for the future.”
Mackenzie also gave a rationale for his choice of broadcasters.
“These respected media outlets can provide this without having to worry about biased reporting by outside interest groups.”
Wild responded that, as in previous campaigns for the position, she is willing to engage in a debate with her opponent, but not necessarily on the first terms offered.
“As I have done every cycle, I plan to provide voters in Pennsylvania’s 7th District ample opportunity to assess my vision and track record of advancing the goals of the Greater Lehigh Valley,” she said in a statement. “I will not be available for the dates Ryan Mackenzie has proposed for our debates because I will be in Washington, D.C., fulfilling my duties as a Member of Congress. However, I agree in principle to at least these two debates and look forward to finding mutually agreeable dates.”
Wild meeting Lisa Scheller four times at the debate stage in 2020 and twice in the last cycle.
