07/21/08 "Himes and I are hosting it, only he doesn't know it," said Whitnum, who petitioned her way onto the ballot last month.

Whitnum pushing for debates

By Neil Vigdor
Staff Writer

Depending upon whom one asks, there are two debates on the calendar between Democratic congressional hopefuls Jim Himes and Lee Whitnum in the 4th District before their Aug.

Or just one.

Both candidates have agreed to a July 28 debate in Norwalk sponsored by Cablevision News 12 and to be held in its studios. Whitnum is also trying to organize a second debate, from lining up a moderator and venue to sending out invitations to prospective participants, including her opponent...

...."I learned a long time ago in my life, you don't sit around and wait for people," Whitnum said.

One of the invitees is already sending his regrets, however.

"We have no plans to attend that debate," said Maura Keaney, Himes' campaign manager.

Keaney cited a conflict in the schedule of Himes, which she said was determined well before the recent invitation from Whitnum. Himes was endorsed by the party during a May nominating convention that Whitnum boycotted...

...Acknowledging that her methods were somewhat unusual, Whitnum said she is still waiting to hear back from most of the prospective debate panelists, which include several members of the local media and a business leader from Stamford.

"Is it unorthodox? Well, the League of Women Voters would be the orthodox way to go, and we all know what happened there," Whitnum said. "I'm not really sure what else we can do to give it credence."

Norwalk Town Clerk Andy Garfunkel, who Whitnum asked to moderate the event, said he would be open to the possibility under the right conditions.

...At least the candidates can agree on one debate, which is being hosted by Cablevision News 12 July 28 in Norwalk. Both Himes and Whitnum confirmed their appearances.

Whitnum is also planning to attend a July 31 candidate forum at The Watermark at 3030 Park, a Bridgeport retirement community. Himes' campaign said he has a conflict but is trying to rearrange his schedule to attend.

As for the debate that is being debated, Whitnum said she is looking for Himes campaign to pick up half of the $300 tab for renting the Norwalk Concert Hall.

"There's no time for hemming and hawing," Whitnum said. "If you're interested, then participate. If you're not, then don't."

The Himes campaign sees things a bit differently

"There is no such debate happening, so we're not going to be paying for it," Keaney said.

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