BURT SAUNDERS FOR CONGRESS

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Why does Congressman Connie Mack IV refuse to debate Senator Burt Saunders and the other challengers for the Congressional seat representing Southwest Florida?

On July 8, Senator Saunders challenged Congressman Mack to a series of debates that would be sponsored by the League of Women Voters in an effort to have all the issues facing Southwest Florida and our country fully discussed.

The email below is the response from Connie's campaign manager and the original text of Burt's letter. Also read Senator Saunders' response to the Mack campaign.

If you believe the voters of Southwest Florida deserve debates between the candidates for Congress, let us know by emailing VotersHaveARightToKnow@burtsaunders.com

-------- Original Message --------
Subject: Re: Debate and/or Town Hall Request
From: "Connie Mack Campaign" <focm2008@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, July 09, 2008 9:03 am
To: "Burt Saunders" <burt@burtsaunders.com>

Dear Senator Saunders:

If and when any challenger to Congressman Mack – whether that is you (an Independent), Robert Neeld (a Democrat), or Jeff George (an Independent) – becomes a viable opponent we will of course consider their request for a debate.

Sincerely,
Jeff Cohen, Campaign Manager

On Tue, Jul 8, 2008 at 12:44 PM, Burt Saunders <burt@burtsaunders.com> wrote:

VIA email and regular U.S. mail

Dear Congressman Mack,

Now that the major party candidates have been selected, southwest Floridians are turning their attention to the November general election. As I travel throughout Congressional District 14, I hear of the enormous problems facing southwest Floridians that must be addressed by Congress. Our constituents want to know where we stand on these issues, and I hope you will join me in informing them of our positions so they can make the best decision in November. I know from my conversations with voters that they are anxious to hear what we have to say on the issues and to see us together to assist them in their decision in November.

I request that we have a series of debates and/or town hall meetings starting in September and ending just prior to the November 4 election day. My campaign staff is ready to work with your staff to coordinate and set up these debates and town hall meetings. We could also request the assistance of the League of Women Voters and other organizations in coordinating these events. I know the media will fully cover these debates, and I am confident our cable providers will air them.

By copy of this letter, I am requesting the assistance of the League of Women Voters in the coordination of these events. I am also copying the media so they can begin to plan their coverage.

I appreciate your consideration of this request and look forward to your prompt response so date and locations can be determined.

Very truly yours,
Burt Saunders

Paid for by Burt Saunders for U.S. Congress Committee