Lynch, Segal Issue Joint Appeal for a Debate in Northern RI

Lynch, Segal Issue Joint Appeal for a Debate in Northern RI

In a display of campaign camaraderie, Congressional contenders Bill Lynch and David Segal issued a joint statement yesterday calling on their two Democratic primary opponents to meet them for a debate in Woonsocket—and promised to hold a town hall meeting in the city if their opponents declined.

The candidates said voters in Blackstone Valley deserved to have a debate among the candidates since debates have been held elsewhere in the First District, including Newport and Providence.

“We believe that northern Rhode Islanders ought not be neglected, and that their votes and opinions are as valuable as those of all other Rhode Islanders," Segal said. “We ask that our opponents agree to meet us for a debate in Woonsocket.”

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“The Blackstone Valley is the heart of the First Congressional District, and also the scene of some immense economic hardships,” Lynch added. “It is essential those of us running to represent the people of northern Rhode Island have the opportunity to discuss with voters our plans for getting our state working again.”

Officials with both campaigns said the idea was born out of discussions between the two candidates about where the debates had been located. “David and Bill mutually noted this and decided to do something about it,” said Lynch spokesman Devin Driscoll. Since the primary is now about two weeks away, he said they decided it would be better to schedule a joint event for voters rather than separate campaign appearances.

Rachel Miller, campaign manager for Segal, said both candidates had a mutual interest in making sure voters heard from all the candidates.

The two campaigns did not specify when the Woonsocket event will be held.

At least one other candidate—Anthony Gemma—has agreed to participate, according to acting campaign manager Dan Mercer.

And the fourth candidate, David Cicilline, is open to it, according to campaign manager Eric Hyers. “We’ve participated in five debates and forums already and will be debating again tomorrow night and again on September 2 and September 10,” Hyers said. “We are confident that the people of the first district will have plenty of opportunities to hear the candidates. We are happy to consider other invitations as they come in.”