Markey, Lynch agree to 6 Senate debates

MEDFORD, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com/AP) – Congressmen Ed Markey and Stephen Lynch, both Democrats looking to run for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by John Kerry, have agreed to a framework for six debates across the state prior to the April 30 primary.

The Senate campaigns for Markey and Lynch made the announcement on Monday. The agreement calls for three public, general issue debates in Boston, Worcester, and Springfield, as well as issue-focused debates on jobs and the economy, domestic policy, and foreign policy.

The debates will also be held in Lowell and New Bedford, with the sixth location to be announced at a later date.

"This agreement ensures we will debate the issues that are most important to Massachusetts in regions throughout the Commonwealth," said Rep. Markey. "Voters deserve to hear in-depth debates on the issues facing the state and the nation, and I look forward to scheduling these as soon as possible."

The campaigns say the debate hosts haven't been decided, but they areexpected to include local media consortiums. They say they'll be working outspecific dates and details with various media outlets.

"While I would be happy to debate more frequently, the reality is that we have nine weeks left in this election, and both Ed and I have to spend time in Washington trying to fix the budget mess. So I think this debate schedule makes sense given the tight timeframe of the election," said Rep. Lynch.

Both campaigns will be working out specific dates and details with various media outlets.

Republican hopefuls include Norfolk state Rep. Daniel Winslow, Cohassetbusinessman Gabriel Gomez and former U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan.

The final election is scheduled for June 25.

Cox Media Group