WMTW in Maine wanted to host a debate between the Democratic and Republican nominees for U.S. House in Maine’s Second District. However, Democratic nominee Emily Cain refused to participate unless the only other candidate whose name is on the ballot, an independent, was invited. As a result the WMTW debate is cancelled.
However, the three candidates will debate each other on October 23, and that inclusive debate will be broadcast on two other stations. See this story. The Maine 2nd district is an open seat, because congressman Michael Michaud is not running for re-election; instead he is the Democratic nominee for Governor. Thanks to Thomas MacMillan for the link.
This appears to be another of those hypocritical situations where the Media won’t let a 3rd party or Independent participate in the Debate because the candidate is not polling high enough in the Polls, but the reason the candidate is not pulling high enough in the Polls, is because the Media won’t let them participate in the Debates, thereby getting exposure which might increase their Polling numbers.
This is why I believe that a serious candidate should be allowed in any Debate – privately or publicly sponsored.
I do have to give my “hats-off” acknowledgement to the Democratic nominee for not playing this discriminatory game of the Media.