With just 19 days left in this election, it is imperative that voters hear directly from Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith and myself. Public debates are an important part of our democracy.

But our opponent is flat-out refusing to debate me — despite saying just weeks ago that she would.

Yesterday, I asked Senator Hyde-Smith why she refuses to agree to a public debate. She responded in an interview by calling candidates who debate "losing,” (then literally ran out of the interview and refused to answer any more questions). 

Too often, Mississippi and Mississippians are ignored, overlooked, disrespected or taken for granted by the rest of the country. We expect that from others, but we should NEVER expect that from our own — especially not from the leaders we elect to represent us in Washington. 

But that is exactly what our opponent is doing by refusing to debate me. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith’s actions are undemocratic and disrespectful to Mississippi voters: Please pitch in $15 now to help defeat her.

Not only are Senator Hyde-Smith’s remarks yesterday an insult to the people of Mississippi — it’s also a dig at her own Republican colleagues. Nearly every other sitting senator up for reelection this year has debated with their opponent, including Senator Joni Ernst in Iowa, Senator Martha McSally in Arizona, Senator Susan Collins in Maine — and even Senator Lindsey Graham in South Carolina! 

So what is Cindy Hyde-Smith hiding from? 

Here’s how I see it: If you are ashamed of your own record, if you are not prepared to defend your own record, and if you have some concern about your ability to be on stage and answer questions to the press — then perhaps you are not fit to serve Mississippians in the U.S. Senate.

Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith treats her constituents like the rest of the country treats us: By ignoring Mississippi or looking down upon us. Her refusal to debate signals that she doesn’t think she owes Mississippians anything.

It’s clear: Senator Hyde-Smith is NOT standing up for Mississippi — and now she’s ignoring her constituents like the rest of the country often does!

We expect better from our senators. Will you donate $15 right now to help me defeat Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith on November 3?

If Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith isn't afraid to defend her record or debate as she claimed just two weeks ago, then she should join me in a public debate. 

I think she owes the people of Mississippi that. 

— Mike Espy