The Eagle-Tribune - Finegold Pushes for Debates in Each Congressional District Community

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By Crystal Bozek , Staff Writer

Twenty-nine debates in four months.

Andover state Rep. Barry Finegold says it's doable, and he's challenging his opponents for the 5th Congressional District seat to get on board. The debates would be in each city and town in departing Congressman Martin Meehan's stomping ground.

"I'm willing to have debates early in the morning, late at night, Saturdays, Sundays … a couple in one day," Finegold said. "Some people say 29 before the primary might be too much work, but I want to make the extra effort."

While the administration of Gov. Deval Patrick has yet to schedule a primary, the law says it must happen between Aug. 21 and Sept. 4. That means candidates would have to debate at least twice a week to fit in all 29 debates Finegold is calling for.

Candidates reached yesterday said they're up for the challenge.

Scott Ferson, a spokesman for Lowell City Councilor Eileen Donoghue, called debates critical in the upcoming summer months, when people tend to take their minds off politics.

"They become even more important," Ferson said. "Eileen believes there should be as many debates as possible. How many you can fit in a special race is the question. If we can do it, that'd be great."

State Rep. James Eldridge, D-Acton, who also is seeking the congressional seat, said he hopes Finegold follows through with the challenge.

"I've always said this race is about each of the communities, not just the big cities," Eldridge said. "It can definitely be done."

Roger Lau, campaign manager for candidate Niki Tsongas, widow of Paul Tsongas who held the congressional seat before being elected to the U.S. Senate, said she would participate in any debates organized by independent third-party organizations.

"We're happy to debate," Lau said. "We want to reach as many voters as possible between now and election day. It's important to campaign in each town."

Candidates Rep. James Miceli, D-Wilmington, and Democratic activist David O'Brien of Concord could not be reached yesterday afternoon.

Finegold is looking for organizations and media outlets to sponsor each of the debates.

"Too many times people try for 30-second television ads," he said. "We need to get out there and listen to voters. … At the minimum, we give people the opportunity to question us."

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