Congressman Markey continues to dodge debate on FOX 25

(MyFoxBoston.com) – The primary for the U.S. Senate special election in Massachusetts is less than 30 days away, but there is chance voters may not know where Democratic candidates Ed Markey and Stephen Lynch stand on the issues.

Congressman Markey is the only U.S. Senate candidate not to agree to a FOX 25 debate with his opponent or even an in-studio interview.

FOX 25's Sharman Sacchetti caught up with Markey at a campaign stop outside Boston City Hall last week and asked if the congressman would have a problem appearing on FOX 25. He said he would have no problem.

"I'll be answering questions all week long, I'm sure like this for FOX and crisscrossing the state," Markey replied. He further stated, "As the campaign goes by, you know, this is not the first time you have spoken to me and it will not be the last."

However, a week later, Markey's campaign is refusing an on-air debate or even a sit-down interview.

Congressman Lynch on the other hand says he would debate his opponent on FOX 25, and he isn't sure why Markey will not.

"Well, I don't know, maybe he's believing the polls, sorta [sic] having a rose garden approach to the campaign a little bit I think. I just think it's better for the electorate to know the candidates and have the ability to put you on the hot seat, find out where you are on the issues. It's good, it's all good. I think it helps democracy. It puts more people out to vote, so I can't understand why anybody would not want to do a debate," Lynch said.

FOX 25 went to Markey's campaign headquarters in Charlestown to ask yet again about a potential debate, but his press secretary said he was unavailable. She said Markey's next campaign stop is Friday and cited his tough schedule as one of the reasons he is unavailable for a FOX 25 appearance.

On the other hand, Lynch found and made the time while speaking about poverty and jobs at a rally in Dewey Square. He said he would be happy to do another interview.

"I would come on, and you can take your toughest interviewer and ask me some tough questions. I don't mind that. I'd enjoy that," Lynch said.

Giselle Barry, a spokesperson for Markey's campaign, said in a statement to FOX 25, "The Markey campaign plans to continue with the mutually agreed-upon schedule of debates."

Markey is leading Lynch by double digits in the polls which may be why he is employing the low profile campaign strategy.

Cox Media Group