Will Markey and Lynch Debate in Worcester?

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Adam Joseph Drici, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

U.S. Rep. Ed Markey (D-Malden) rolled his proposed debate schedule for the Democratic primary against U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-South Boston) with two general debates and four issue-specific meetings, but Lynch's campaign wants six forums across the Commonwealth without limiting the subject matter. Whether or not one of those meetings will take place in Worcester is still a matter of debate.

According to a release from the Markey campaign, the two general debates woudl be held in Boston and Springfield, sponsored by independent news organizations, which would mutually agree with the candidates on format and length.

The locations for the four issue-specific debates would be up for negotiation between the candidates and potential sponsors, and would cover topics such as jobs and the economy, education and public safety and national security.

"The voters deserve to hear the Senate candidates debate the issues that matter most to Massachusetts," said Sarah Benzing, Markey's campaign manager, in a statement. "With such a short primary, this proposed plan is aggressive and will bring the debate forum to as many voters as possible throughout the state. This election should focus on the issues workers, families and businesses are confronting every day, and I look forward to a lively discussion with all of the candidates in this race."

One of the goals of the proposed plan is geographic reach across the Bay State, and the Markey campaign believes the coordinated approach will provide a stronger opportunity to ensure that the debates are geographically diverse.

Earlier this month, Lynch called for as many debates as possible, with at least six across the state in Lowell, Boston, Springfield, Worcester, Pittsfield, and Fall River or New Bedford.

“As I have said many times over the past few weeks, I believe we should hold as many debates as this short election time frame allows, including general issue debates in all parts of the state from Pittsfield, and New Bedford to Lowell and Worcester," Lynch said in a statement on Friday, noting that at least 15 organizations or media outlets had already expressed interest.

"The people of Massachusetts deserve to hear both candidates discuss all the issues, especially issues that are important to their region. In addition to the general issue debates, I think we should hold a number of issue-specific debates, sponsored by independent, non-partisan organizations who will not be working for either candidate in this primary election.”

Lynch spokesman Conor Yunits said the campaign thinks there should be many more than just two general issues debates. In light of the regional issues and concerns that vary across the state, issue-specific debates could leave many of voters' questions unanswered.

"The Congressman doesn't want to go to Worcester and only talk about the environment," Yunits said.

In regard to where the debates should be held, Yunits said the Lynch campaign has six priority areas and ranks all of them equally.

"The people in Worcester deserve a debate," he said.