To the Editor:

I have voted for 28 years in the North Country, and consider myself somewhat politically active. The ability to meet with, question, and perhaps challenge a candidate running for office is crucial in allowing voters like me to make an informed decision during an election.

Moreover, having a debate or town hall meeting can give citizens a clearer picture of a candidate’s stand on issues.

I am deeply troubled by the fact that Elise Stefanik continues to avoid public debates with Tedra Cobb in the presence of her constituents. Tedra is more than willing, and is in fact eager, to engage with potential voters in live, public debates.

Stefanik is only interested in studio debates or telephone town hall meetings, which excludes access by the people who live in her district. What is she afraid of?

My feeling is that she would be unable to hold her own against Tedra in front of a live audience of local citizens of District 21. While Stefanik currently represents us, she does not live in our district and may very well be called to task on this by attendees.

I say it’s time for her to step up and face Tedra and potential voters in a live setting.

I have met Tedra on several occasions, and am so impressed by her openness and her willingness to engage with the people she hopes to represent in Congress. I believe she can promote and defend her views well in a public debate setting.

Additionally, while we rarely see Stefanik anywhere near the North Country unless the president introduces her for a publicity moment, Tedra has promised to have town hall meetings in each county every year after she is elected.

It’s time for Elise Stefanik to face Tedra Cobb in a public debate.

Brooke Stark

Hammond