Wittman declines requests from non-partisan organizations for debates

8/20/2020

“Unfortunately, Rob doesn’t share in our commitment to rural voters. Time and time again Rob shys away from the issues,” says Qasim Rashid

STAFFORD, VA. - Below is a statement from Qasim Rashid.

“Today is the first debate of this campaign season and unlike my opponent, I stand firm in my commitment to connect with voters in Virginia’s First Congressional District in every way possible for the next 75 days. That’s why on July 8th, my campaign invited Rob Wittman to participate in six debates around the district. We never got a response.

Team Rashid is committed to being accessible to voters everywhere and providing every voter, especially rural voters who might struggle with connectivity, several opportunities to connect with our campaign.

Unfortunately, Rob doesn’t share in our commitment to rural voters. Time and time again Rob shys away from the issues. He either resorts to smear tactics or chooses to ignore our invitations to talk. He’s not just ignoring our invitations, but he’s declining requests from established, non-partisan groups like the NAACP, League of Women Voters and educator groups in Hanover county.

While he hasn’t held a public town hall in over 500 days, Wittman does, however, appear to have ample time for an unlimited amount of closed door meetings with special interests.

We stand firm on our request for 6 debates, across the district, hosted by non-partisan organizations. If Rob is unwilling to defend his record, we accept his concession in this space.”