The Republican candidate for Pennsylvania’s 19th District Senate seat has challenged his opponent, state Sen. Andy Dinniman, D-19, to a series of debates hosted by local news outlets and the League of Women Voters.
In a press release, Jack London extended the invitation, along with a list of more than 25 potential dates, to Dinniman, who has held the seat since 2006.
Reached for comment, Dinniman said he was somewhat surprised by the request.
“There is no need for him to challenge me or anyone else to a debate,” Dinniman said. “We always have debates. The League of Women Voters always schedules such debates, usually about a month before the election. I’ve always participated and hope to participate once again.”
Dinniman said in the past many Republican incumbents in Chester County have declined to participate. “I trust that Mr. London will strongly urge each Republican to participate in the debates involving their races,” Dinniman said.
In London’s press release, he said Dinniman has represented the 19th district for 10 years “but has failed to really tell us where he stands on issues that matter to the region. The voters should demand that we answer their questions and not settle for answers solely through tweets, posts, and press releases. That’s why I am asking Sen. Dinniman to participate in series of debates throughout this campaign.”
London said his background as a former police officer and professional athlete, combined with a 20-year business career in the financial sector, offered a stark contrast to his opponent, “a career politician with zero private-sector experience.”
