Sept. 11, 2008

Tonello calls for spontaneous, interactive 'town-hall' style debates; Winner refuses

John Tonello, Democratic candidate for New York's 53rd district senate seat, has asked that the upcoming debates with incumbent Republican George Winner include a "town hall" style element to allow citizen audience members the chance to pose questions to candidates directly.

Unfortunately, Winner on Thursday backed out of a League of Women Voters invitation to debate in this kind of forum Oct. 2 in Bath and has yet to confirm a town hall-style debate at Corning Community College.

The town-hall debates would be in addition to a more formal, media-panel debate currently scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 15 at Elmira College. That televised debate will feature three members of the press asking pre-scripted questions to candidates.

Tonello said the panel-only format serves a purpose, but denies voters a well-rounded view of the two candidates.

"A media panel of questioners is fine, but it's important to also offer citizens a way to ask questions and express concerns," said Tonello. "Sure, the town hall format can be risky, but I believe this style is the only way for the candidates to showcase their gut reactions, ability to think on the fly, and his or her true connection to the voices of the citizens he or she is seeking to represent."

Tonello said he still hopes Winner will consider debating him town-hall style, but isn't holding his breath. "Frankly, I found his decision insulting to the independent groups that asked us to attend these debates to talk about education, the ballooning $6.4 billion state deficit, government reform, taxes, and other issues," Tonello said. "I think a 30-year incumbent would have a greater respect for the election process -- and the people."

Regardless of Winner's stance, Tonello will give the public the opportunity to ask him questions following the panel-style debate at Elmira College and, if it happens, following the noon Oct. 16 debate at Corning Community College.