Democratic gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger and Republican nominee Winsome Earle-Sears are aiming for a debate in Hampton Roads before Election Day.
Spanberger told Virginia Scope on Thursday that she declined a CNN debate invitation, one day after Earle-Sears turned down an invitation to take part in the People’s Debate at Virginia State University.
Both candidates have criticized the other for not accepting these invites, but they appear to be in agreement on participating in a debate hosted by WAVY News. The Earle-Sears campaign told Virginia Scope they accepted the invitation from WAVY, and the Spanberger campaign said they are in active negotiations for participation. There has not been a set date announced at this time.
“Spanberger for Governor is in active negotiations with WAVY and Norfolk State University to host a Virginia-based gubernatorial debate that will highlight the voices and priorities of Virginia voters,” said Spanberger’s campaign manager Sam Signori.
The Earle-Sears campaign confirmed to Virginia Scope that they have accepted the invitation from WAVY.
The Earle-Sears campaign still wanted the CNN debate also, however, and called it “absurd” that Spanberger declined the invite.
“It’s proof she’s terrified of facing voters in an unscripted setting,” said Earle-Sears’ press secretary, Peyton Vogel.
Signori said the Spanberger campaign declined the CNN debate because they want to prioritize Virginia’s media and issues.
“We believe that debates about Virginia’s future should be rooted in Virginia, produced by Virginia media, and accessible to Virginians across the commonwealth — which is especially important after Winsome Earle-Sears declined a debate that featured three Virginia broadcast partners,” Signori said.
The Earle-Sears campaign said they turned down the People’s Debate due to a schedule conflict with her work as lieutenant governor.
Early voting begins for November’s elections in Virginia on Sept. 19.