For the first time in years, the two major political parties are joining together to sponsor the final mayoral debate of the campaign.
"Its great the political parties are actually taking the lead in sponsoring a debate," said Republican mayoral hopeful Ken Johnson.
Democratic mayoral candidate Art Ward said it will be "something new."
The debate is slated for 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the Giamatti Little League complex on Mix Street.
Ward said that he hopes the showdown will "change the perspective of debates to appeal to more of the public."
Though the format hasn't been set yet, Republican activist Gary Schaffrick said he's rooting for "an old-fashioned Lincoln-Douglass debate" like the famous series of debates in Illinois in 1858 that propelled Abraham Lincoln onto the presidential stage.
Johnson the debate offers the chance "to differentiate me and my opponent on Nov. 6."
Ward said that having a debate sponsored by the parties should increase turnout because at least the town committee members should show up.
Party leaders said they hope the final forum will attract a number of voters eager to learn what they can expect from both men if they win.
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Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
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