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Let’s give us something to talk about.. |
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Hi Friend, Asked to name the biggest problems with our democracy today, you probably wouldn’t put “not enough talking by politicians” at the top of the list. But maybe you should. In key midterm races all across the country, there is going to be just one debate between the candidates – and, in some important contests, like the gubernatorial battle in Arizona, we are on track to have ZERO candidate debates. That is sort of crazy. And really unfortunate. This lack of debates is a relatively new trend, and it is happening because in these polarized times, one of the few things that unites politicians of both parties is the single factor they fear perhaps most of all: uncontrolled situations. But the very reason office seekers don’t like these forums is the very reason we need them for our democracy to flourish, for voters to be able to make the right choices and for government to function. Candidate debates are different than rallies, TV ads, and photo ops. They offer relatively frank and unpredictable forums that lead to the kind of dialogue we need to understand and evaluate those who seek to lead us and to get things done. Voters deserve to hear from those who would represent them. At No Labels we aren’t afraid of a debate and believe that holding conversations drives unity and change. Do you agree that politicians should debate each other? |
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So watch the debates in your state and local races if there are still more on the schedule before Election Day. And next campaign season, tell the candidates of both parties: We need to talk. Liz Morrison
Co-executive Director |
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