Mississippi Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Ty Pinkins is challenging sitting Republican Senator Roger Wicker to a debate at the upcoming Neshoba County Fair.
Pinkins called for the debate to take place on Wednesday, July 31 amid the usual campaign speeches delivered by candidates at the pavilion at Founder’s Square.
In a letter to the Wicker, Pinkins highlighted the significance of the Neshoba County Fair as a platform for political candidates to present their visions and engage with the citizens of Mississippi. Pinkins emphasized the importance of a debate in providing voters with a clear understanding of the candidates’ positions on critical issues facing the state and the nation.
He also referenced the Neshoba County Fair hosting a 1995 gubernatorial debate between Republican incumbent Governor Kirk Fordice and Democratic challenger Dick Molpus and the 2002 congressional debate between Republican Chip Pickering and Democrat Ronnie Shows.
“In keeping with this tradition, I believe that a debate between us at the Neshoba County Fair would provide an excellent opportunity for voters to hear firsthand our positions on the critical issues facing Mississippi and our nation,” Pinkins said in a press release.
Pinkins, a Mississippi Delta attorney and decorated Army veteran, added that the debate would likely be well-received by voters. He contended that offering a “transparent and informative forum” for discussing the policies and principles that will shape the state’s future would be beneficial for those looking to cast a ballot in the fall.
“I respectfully request that you accept this challenge and join me in this important civic exercise,” Pinkins urged in his letter to Wicker. “The people of Mississippi deserve nothing less than a full and open discussion of the issues that affect their lives.”
At this time, Wicker, the ranking Republican member of the U.S. Armed Services Committee, is not scheduled to appear at this year’s Neshoba County Fair. His communications team confirmed to SuperTalk Mississippi News that he is not listed as a speaker due to a conflict with the Senate’s schedule.
The general election will be held on Tuesday, November 5.
