WILMINGTON, DE — Senator Chris Coons has rejected WDEL's offer to hold a U.S. Senate debate that would air on both WDEL and NBC's CoastTV. After learning of the offer, Dr. Mike Katz told WDEL he would welcome the opportunity to participate. WDEL says its offer remains open.
The proposal follows the Katz campaign's announcement, based on sources at the University of Delaware, that the University will not hold its traditional general-election debate program this year. Katz and Coons appeared at a candidate forum at the Jewish Community Center earlier this month, but that format did not allow a back-and-forth between them.
"Senator Coons has represented Delaware in Washington for nearly 16 years. He needs to be accountable to the people he represents. Voters are the employers. They deserve to see us side by side, answering the same difficult questions and defending our records and plans."
Katz thanked WDEL for proposing a broadcast debate and called on other Delaware news organizations to report Coons's decision, ask why he declined, and cover the Senate race closely.
"A free press has a vital role in holding every candidate and elected official accountable, including me. Ask Senator Coons why he turned down this debate and whether he will reconsider. Press him on his record. Press me on my plans. Report our answers so voters have the information they need before Election Day."
Katz said open debate is especially important when political power is concentrated. Democrats hold Delaware's congressional delegation, statewide executive offices, and majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly.
"Political power belongs to the people. Elected officials only borrow it. Transparency, dissent, and the free exchange of ideas are essential to good government. No party has all the answers."
Katz urged Coons to accept WDEL's open offer and said he is ready to participate in a professionally moderated debate before Election Day.
"Give Delawareans the debate. Give them the facts. Then trust the people to decide. People over party. Service above self."
About Dr. Mike Katz Dr. Mike Katz is the Republican nominee for the United States Senate in Delaware. A pediatric critical care anesthesiologist, business executive, former Delaware State Senator, and nationally recognized healthcare leader, Dr. Katz has dedicated more than three decades to serving Delaware families through medicine, business leadership, and public service. He and his wife, Trish, have called Delaware home for thirty years, where they raised their family. His campaign is focused on restoring accountability, strengthening Delaware's economy, supporting law enforcement and veterans, defending agriculture, securing America's borders, protecting constitutional freedoms, making America healthy again, and always putting Delaware first.
Media Contact Hunter Dworsky, Executive Director (Campaign Manager) Hunter@drmikekatz.com