Candidate Corrigan: Public Deserves a Debate

Editor's Note: The following op-ed was written by Joseph Corrigan, Republican candidate for state Representative (167th district).

As a candidate for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, I contacted Mrs. Horrocks of the League of Women Voters of Chester County(LWVCC) to ask if the League would sponsor a debate for Representative Milne and me.  Mrs. Horrocks informed me that the LWVCC was considering a debate and that Mrs. Dondero would contact me.  Mrs. Dondero called March 16, we discussed possible locations, and the process began.  A member of Mr. Milne’s campaign has now protested that he does not have time in his schedule for a debate.  

As the challenger in this election, I concede that a debate serves my interests, but it also serves the interests of the electorate.  I welcome the opportunity to make my views known and to discuss differences with Mr. Milne in a public forum.  Our nation has a rich tradition of utilizing debates to educate voters about their candidates.

Our Founding Fathers knew that  public officials would deviate from the public interest and subsequently avoid public discussion .  Debates and a vigilant press are defenses against this “incumbent-itis.”  I believe that a debate is in the public interest.  Thank you very much.

Joe Corrigan