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Astorino to Cuomo: Let's Have Eight Regional Debates

 

 

Andrew Cuomo doesn't like debates. But has a responsibility to do them.

New York has the highest taxes in America, the worst economic outlook, and its state government ranks as the most corrupt in the nation. Voters must hear from their candidates.

I didn't hide from debates when I ran for re-election as Westchester County Executive. I engaged my opponent -- a Harvard trained debater -- in five one-hour debates in a single county. Advisors told me not to, but it would have been cowardly and wrong for me to refuse.

New York is a vast and diverse state with many needs and nuances. Issues that might arise in a Binghamton debate, might not apply to voters in Brighton Beach, and vice versa. So I propose -- I challenge -- Governor Cuomo to a series of at least eight regional debates around New York State between now and Election Day.

Let's debate in Western, NY; Central NY; the North Country; the Southern Tier; in the Capital Region, Hudson Valley, New York City and one just for Long Island.

So community organizations, schools and news outlets interested in sponsoring a debate should get in touch with both our campaigns.

New York has fallen behind other states in so many categories. Our taxpayers deserve to hear what the two major candidates for governor plan to do about it.

You're not afraid to debate, are you governor?