I talked to Senate candidate Dave Westlake the other day. The Watertown businessman and former West Point cadet is a serious underdog in the race. His January campaign finance report showed that he had raised less than $30,000 in six months on the campaign trail. I assume that includes the money he has contributed himself.
He says that while he has accepted three debate offers from third party groups, his opponent Terrence Wall has declined to participate in every opportunity.
Westlake simply doesn't have the leverage to pressure Wall, who is reputedly not a good public speaker, into a debate. Fortunately, a debate has finally been scheduled:
The Republican Women of the North sent out a press advisory Monday regarding a forum Saturday in St. Germaine. Senate candidates Terrence Wall and Dave Westlake are listed as participating in a debate at 10:15 a.m.
Republican Women of the North. Epic name. Bizarre that Leinenkugel, who has plans for Mother's Day, will not be participating. Is showing commitment to his mom/wife a better way for Leiney to convince voters he is a Republican than participating in a Republican debate?
Even though Leinenkugel will not be at the debate, his entry to the race might have been what motivated Wall to participate. Now that another big name is in the running, Wall needs to get out and make his case.
