CNMI's Republican gubernatorial team wants a debate
A gubernatorial debate under oath? That's the proposal by the independent Palacios-Apatang ticket. Republicans Torres-Sablan say game on. But the Saipan Chamber of Commerce says not too fast. Regional correspondent Thomas Manglona has the details.
In the CNMI, Republican gubernatorial candidates Torres-Sablan want a debate.
"I am appealing to him that if not me, it is to give the opportunity for voters out there to hear what you also have to say," Gov. Ralph Torres said.
He's also calling for a debate between the candidates for lieutenant governor.
"A debate is not for candidates to see who is beating who," Sen. Vinnie Sablan said. He's the current governor's running mate. "It is to give the chance to our people to listen so they can make a sound decision."
The Independent Palacios-Apatang team says game on, but only if it is under oath.
"We will also sit down with the Chamber of Commerce and say these will be the subject issues that we will like to include," Independent gubernatorial candidate Lt. Gov. Arnold Palacios said.
But the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, which traditionally hosts the events say there will be no debate, at least one hosted by them before the runoff on Nov. 25. The chamber defended its first debate saying it was non-partisan and fair when there were three gubernatorial candidates, adding that no debates in the U.S. "require participation while being under oath."