Herbert Issues Debate Challenge to Frelinghuysen for 11th District Race

Democratic candidate for New Jersey's 11th district in the U.S. House of Representatives Douglas Herbert moved forward with his summer campaign this week, issuing a debate challenge to eight-term incumbent U.S. Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen.

In a letter delivered to Frelinghuysen's office on Wednesday, Herbert wrote, "In these tough economic times, the people of the Eleventh District and America are struggling and they deserve leaders who will properly address their concerns. As candidates for the House of Representatives and out of respect for our American democracy, we owe it to the voters to hold honest and open debates about the future of our nation."

Herbert, who lives in Chatham Borough, proposed a series of three debates, one per month in August, September and October. Each debate, as proposed by Herbert, would have a theme, starting with the economy and job creation, followed by energy policy and the environment and concluding with an open forum question and answer session with residents of the 11th district, which includes Chatham Borough and township.

The location and hosts of the debates were not specified, other than being held in the 11th district and moderated by a non-partisan group, according to the proposal.

Herbert said late last week he had not heard a response from Congressman Frelinghuysen's office.

"The debates are important to inform the public about the differences of our opinions and positions," Herbert said. "An election is about informing the public, and the best way to do it is to have the two people there who are running for office answering questions."

Frelinghuysen could not be reached for comment.