Peekskill Candidate Debate Cancelled by League of Women Voters

Earlier today the League of Women Voters informed the participants in writing that they were cancelling the Peekskill debates.  Their stated reason is as follows:

“I regret to inform you that the LWV Debate for Peekskill candidates is canceled.  The proposed League format of the debate needed to be accepted by each and every candidate, and it was not.”

The Democratic candidates had all accepted the League’s invitation two weeks ago.

We were pleased to promptly accept the League’s format and rules.  Only when pressed for an answer by the League did the Peekskill GOP candidates for Common Council reject the debates. 

Marina Ciotti, Chair of the Peekskill Democrats was not surprised by their avoidance.  “We have always stood for open, transparent, responsive governance and have never rejected a fair debate.  Our candidates were ready, willing and able to stand in front of voters of Peekskill and answer questions in a fair, open and nonpartisan debate.  It is not surprising that our Republican colleagues did not join us in this endeavor."  Ciotti added, “This is their MO.  The Republicans talk a good game but when it’s time to take the field, they never come out of the locker room. They just cry foul.”