Open Letter from Williams Calls for 5 Debates with Rush

Dear Representative Rush,

Let me first congratulate you on your primary day victory on September 14. As both of us know, there are two different and distinct parts of the campaign season. The primary election culminated the first component, and now we enter an exciting and frantic final forty-five days.

I firmly believe that the foundation of the American political process is an informed electorate. We have a fundamental responsibility, as candidates for public office, to express clearly our beliefs and policy positions. By doing so, we ensure the outcome of the November 2 election will be the product of knowledgeable and dedicated voters. I believe the best way to achieve this result is public debate between candidates.  

I propose a series of five debates before November 2, hosted by various community groups and news organizations. In order to maximize outreach, one debate should be held in each of the Boston neighborhoods and the three towns: West Roxbury, Hyde Park-Roslindale, Dedham, Norwood and Westwood. These debates will be true debates, not candidate forums.

I believe practiced speeches do little to explain the real problems facing Massachusetts. Debates, however, amplify the differences between the candidates and provide better information for residents. Lastly, we must encourage public attendance and participation; we must be accountable to those we will ultimately serve.  

Again, I congratulate you on your victory and I hope you will join me in these debates for the good of the Suffolk and Norfolk district and the Commonwealth as a whole.

Sincerely,

Brad Williams