LEADers Encouraging Aroostook Development (LEAD) and WAGM-TV will host two live televised debates for the candidates running for the U.S. Senate and Second District Congressional races in next month’s election.
Debate organizers are turning to the community to submit questions to ensure issues of importance to area residents are addressed by candidates running for two of the three top offices appearing on the ballot. Arrangements have been set with both candidates for the U.S. Senate race, and the confirmed participation of two of the three hopefuls for the open Second District Congressional seat. However, efforts to secure a northern Maine debate between the three candidates for governor have been unsuccessful as both major party candidates have declined the invitation to participate.
“We feel very strongly that the issues faced by residents of northernmost Maine are unique and that county voters should have the opportunity to have candidates debate these issues and share what they would do if elected,” said Jason Parent, LEAD debate committee co-chair. “Working in partnership with WAGM, we have hosted debates during every election cycle since 2008, and this spring expanded that to include contested primary races for the statewide office holders. We are pleased that the U.S. Senate and Second District Congressional candidates understand the importance of a debate that focuses on issues unique to our region and look forward to hearing their views.”
“We feel it is very important to give our viewers the opportunity to ask questions of our candidates so they can make an informed choice on Election Day,” said Kelly Landeen, WAGM-TV station manager. “By working with LEAD to host the debates we give a voice to county residents, and give the candidates insight to what they feel are important issues impacting our area.”
On Monday, Oct. 20 at 7 p.m., Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. Susan Collins and her Democratic challenger Shenna Bellows will take part in the first of the two debates.
On Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m., the debate for the Second District Congressional race will be broadcast live. Democrat Emily Cain and Independent candidate Blaine Richardson have both confirmed their attendance. Republican Bruce Poliquin has not yet confirmed his participation. Given that two of the three candidates have committed, organizers have decided to proceed with the debate.
“We are most grateful to the candidates who have agreed to take part in this important discussion on the issues that are of concern to county voters,” said Virginia Joles, LEAD debate committee co-chair. “WAGM and LEAD are committed to helping those who will cast their ballots on Nov. 4 be as informed as possible. Now we want to hear from folks across northernmost Maine what they feel are the important issues the candidates need to speak to. We encourage one and all to submit questions that will be asked to candidates in both of the upcoming debates.”
Individuals are encouraged to submit their questions by email to debate@wagmtv.com or to mail them to the television station at Debate c/o WAGM-TV, 12 Brewer Road, Presque Isle, Maine 04769.
