We were disappointed to hear that a debate to which all candidates were invited by Congregation Beth Elohim in Acton, MA has been cancelled. Why? Because Patrick was the only candidate who replied to the invitation, confirming that he would attend. The debate, which would have been held on the morning of Sunday, September 16, would have been an opportunity for the candidates to discuss the three questions proposed in advance by the congregation, at least two of which have not been discussed in any of the previous debates held in this election.

Patrick was particularly looking forward to answering the first question on “The Congressional Image” and how to change it. We think that the first step toward changing the “Congressional Image” should be accepting any opportunity to meet with and speak to the members of one’s community and engaging in, not shying away from, true debate. The Lowell Sun recently published an article on the warring between the Tsongas and Ogonowski campaigns over how many debates should be held and when and where to hold them. If a candidate has a good message that she or he truly wishes to be heard, shouldn’t she or he be fighting for more debates, not fewer? We certainly believe so.

We wish to thank the Congregation Beth Elohim for attempting to organize what could have been an informative debate.