Candidate issues debate challenge to candidate from neighboring district

In an unusual move, the Republican congressional challenger in New York's 21st district offered to debate the Democratic challenger in the 20th district.

Hudson Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand had challenged incumbent Republican John Sweeney in her race to a debate on Iraq a few weeks earlier.

In the absence of a response from Sweeney, Albany Republican Warren Redlich offered to debate Gillibrand himself. Redlich's offer was open-ended, allowing Gillibrand to choose the number of debates and the topics.

Redlich noted that Gillibrand's challenge to Sweeney may just have been a campaign stunt: "We'll see if she really wants to debate someone on substantive issues."

Gillibrand is originally from Albany, in Redlich's district. She now lives in Hudson. The two districts comprise essentially all of New York's Capital Region. The 21st district includes all of Albany, Schenectady, Schoharie and Montgomery counties, and part of Fulton County. The 20th district wraps around the 21st, and includes all of Otsego, Delaware, Greene, Columbia, Washington, Warren counties, and parts of Essex and Dutchess counties. The two districts each include parts of Saratoga and Rensselaer counties.

The text of Redlich's letter to Gillibrand is below.

——————
Gillibrand for Congress
PO Box 1279
Hudson, NY 12534

By Fax: 518-751-2555

Re: Debates

Dear Ms. Gillibrand:

I had the pleasure today of reading your June 22nd debate challenge to Congressman Sweeney about the War in Iraq. As far as I can tell, he has not responded.

I appreciate your desire for a real debate on substantive issues, and would be happy to debate you. This offer is open-ended. I will debate you as many times as you like, on whatever issues you choose.

While we are running in different districts, we share two counties and the vast majority of our voters are in the same media market. It might be a bit unusual for us to debate, but that shouldn’t stop us. I would also welcome the incumbents if they want to join us, and assume you feel the same.

I look forward to hearing your response and joining you soon for one or more debates on the topic(s) of your choosing.

Very truly yours,


Warren Redlich