JOHN, my far-right opponent, Nicole Malliotakis, just pulled out of our full-length televised debate on NY1. For context, this debate is tradition here in NY-11 – it’s been held every year since 2014.

I’m going to tell you why I’m not surprised that Nicole decided to skip our debate. But, if you’re tight on time and know just how much more this proves that NY-11 needs new leadership, will you chip in as much as you can to help me win in a few weeks time?

Let me start by saying that people across our district deserve to hear how their candidates for Congress will tackle the most pressing issues in our community. From rising costs across the board to lowering prescription drug prices, I was ready for an open debate between me and my opponent.

And JOHN, here’s the reason why Nicole Malliotakis backed out of the debate. During an one-on-one interview hosted by the eventual debate moderator, Nicole was pressed for an answer on her role in the January 6th insurrection. She proceeded to brush off the topic and – here’s the best part – blame Democratic leadership for that day. I wish I was joking.

Here’s the truth: Nicole just doesn’t want her constituents to hear how extreme she is on the issues.

But, that won’t stop me from telling you that she voted against codifying Roe v. Wade into federal law, voted against safety measures to protect people against gun violence, won’t pledge to keep deadly assault weapons off our streets, and has no intention of making health care more accessible.

I’d take my record over my opponent’s any day of the week. But, what matters is that the voters can compare us side-by-side, and Nicole Malliotakis’ refusal to debate is stopping them from being able to do that. It’s shameful and I’m of the opinion that if you can’t answer tough questions, you don’t deserve to be in Congress.

People all across NY-11 are tired of Nicole letting them down. I’m running against her because I know I’d be a representative that Staten Island and South Brooklyn would be proud of.

We’re gaining momentum in this race and my opponent knows it – it’s part of the reason she’s skipping our debate. Will you chip in as much as you can to help me defeat Nicole Malliotakis?

Thank you,

Max Rose