Yesterday, The Philadelphia Inquirer ripped Tom Wolf for only agreeing to participate in one debate, and offered to host a debate of its own where the questions would be solicited from the people of Pennsylvania. Republican gubernatorial nominee Scott Wagner is eager to participate in such an event.“Scott agrees with The Inquirer that the people of Pennsylvania deserve to know the policy differences between the candidates before they step into the voting booth,” said campaign manager Jason High. “One 45 minute debate does not allow for that, and will enable Governor Wolf to try to shield his agenda of higher taxes, fewer jobs and a less educated workforce from those who deserve to know the truth. While the Governor believes he is entitled to votes without going out and earning them, Scott will debate anytime, anywhere and we eagerly await The Inquirer’s formal request so Scott can confirm his participation.”

From The Inquirer:

“Debate is one of the cornerstones of a healthy democracy. And in a time when many people are fretting over the state of our democracy, robust debate is even more important. That’s why we’re disappointed that Gov. Wolf has agreed to only one debate with his rival for office, former state Sen. Scott Wagner. Even more disappointing: the single debate he’s agreed to will cost $300 a ticket for members of the public.
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According to Wolf’s campaign, the debate will be the only one that the governor will participate in. They’ve offered no concrete reason for sticking to a single event. That means that if you want to hear candidates’ views on education, healthcare, the response to the opioid epidemic, immigration, criminal justice, or any of the critical issues facing the state, you are out of luck.
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This is a clear break from tradition. In 2014, Wolf debated incumbent Tom Corbett three times, calling the debates “a great democratic exercise.” Three debates is the standard in recent Pa. gubernatorial race history.
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A debate between candidates, in which the people can ask their questions, is the epitome of a participatory democracy.

Voters deserve to be informed about candidates before they go to the polls. That is why we are inviting both Gov. Wolf and Mr. Wagner to a “people’s debate” hosted by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
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We hope both candidates know that without healthy, open debate on the issues,  they’ll be putting a lot more than a few votes in jeopardy.”