April 1, 2016 Press Releases

Thirty Days Later, Eldridge Renews Invitation to Boozman, Gilbert to Participate in 5 Debates, 5 Town Hall Forums


by Conner for Arkansas

Thirty Days Later, Eldridge Renews Invitation to Boozman, Gilbert to Participate in 5 Debates, 5 Town Hall Forums

LITTLE ROCK – Thirty days after first issuing the invitation, former prosecutor and U.S. Attorney Conner Eldridge renewed his challenge to Sen. John Boozman and Frank Gilbert to participate in five televised debates and five town hall forums around the state to answer questions directly from voters and clearly state their positions on the issues. Eldridge originally issued the invitation on March 1, the day of the Arkansas primary election.

“This is a critical race in a pivotal election year, and candidates have an obligation to debate and discuss issues with the voters,” said Eldridge. “We owe it to the people of Arkansas to look them in the eye and directly answer their questions. That is exactly what I have committed to do and it is what Arkansans should expect from their leaders. Senator Boozman continues to neglect this responsibility.”

Eldridge is calling for a total of five televised debates – one debate in each congressional district as well as participation in the AETN statewide debate. Eldridge is also calling for five town hall forums, which would give voters the chance to ask questions directly to the candidates. The forums would be held in Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, Rogers, and Texarkana. Eldridge has said the logistics and details of each debate and town hall can be worked out between the hosting organizations and candidates, but agreeing to participate in them is the necessary first step.

“It’s been a month since I challenged Sen. Boozman to five debates and five town halls, and he has refused to participate. With so much at stake in this election, Arkansans deserve a leader who is not afraid to stand in front of them and answer tough questions. I encourage all Arkansans to join me in calling on John Boozman to debate," said Eldridge.

Eldridge encouraged those who would like to see the debates and town hall forums to use the #WheresJohn hashtag on social media to let the senator know their thoughts on the matter, or they may call his campaign at (479) 636-7036.

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