Hassebrook Asks Opponent to Debate in Omaha

Candidate for Governor Chuck Hassebrook sent his opponent a letter yesterday, asking him to agree to a debate in Omaha.

“This is a critical election, and Nebraska voters should be educated about the candidates and our stances on the issues that are important to them. There is no better way to do that than to engage in meaningful debate, that can be broadcast to reach as many voters as possible,” said Hassebrook.

According to the letter, the Omaha Press Club, League of Women Voters, and WOWT reached out to both campaigns in July with an offer to host a debate in Nebraska’s largest city in late October. Hassebrook accepted right away, but Ricketts delayed for weeks, ultimately not responding until September that he declined, citing “scheduling conflicts.”

Hassebrook also personally reached out in July to mutually plan a series of debates and town halls throughout the state, which Ricketts also declined, again citing scheduling conflicts.

In the letter sent to Mr. Ricketts yesterday, Hassebrook proposed the debate be held using the rules and location first proposed to them by the Omaha Press Club: Thursday, October 23^rd from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

“Priority one for any candidate should always be to share their vision for our future with Nebraska voters. A debate in our biggest city and largest media market is a great way to do that. Mr. Ricketts continues to duck Chuck’s proposal for joint appearances. What is he so afraid of?,” said Communications Director Meg Mandy.

So far there has only been one debate, hosted by the Omaha World-Herald on Labor Day at the Nebraska State Fair. The second debate is scheduled for next Thursday, October 2 at the NET studios in Lincoln.

Chuck Hassebrook