Letter to the Editor - Political Debates

For the two key races in Western Iowa, we need to hear from both sides. There’s a problem: the Republican
candidates for Iowa District 13 and Congress from the 4th District refuse to meet their challengers face-to-
face.

Travis Sitzman has ignored requests from Rosanne Plante to join in a moderated debate. He has held no
open town halls, and his internet posts are free of any detailed policy positions.

Randy Feenstra is the expert at avoiding debates. During the election two years ago (and this cycle), he has
refused to hold pre-announced open town halls, he has refused to debate Ryan Melton, refused to
participate in the Iowa State Fair Soapbox, and refused the invitation to appear on the Iowa Public Television
Iowa Press Debates. For the last two, he was the only candidate for Federal office not to appear.

What are they afraid of? Do they have something to hide? Are they just shy? Do they both suffer from
glossophobia (the fear of public speaking?)

The people of Western Iowa deserve honesty and candor from all office-seekers.

If a candidate is afraid to stand up for themselves, you can bet they won’t stand up for you.

Randy Stanislav

Blencoe, IA