On April 5, Lt. Gov. Kaine released the following open letter to Jerry Kilgore, inviting him to debate once a month in a "Trust the People" tour of Virginia.
Dear Jerry: The campaign for governor has certainly gotten off to a quick start. As you know, the Commonwealth is at a crossroads, and Virginians deserve to hear directly from the candidates for governor on their visions for the future, and how they plan to move Virginia forward.That's why I trust, Jerry, that you will accept my offer to debate once a month in a "Trust the People" tour of every region of Virginia.
I was very encouraged when you challenged me to a debate on transportation solutions a few weeks ago. I was surprised, however, to see you quoted in today's Augusta Free Press saying that I had not accepted your challenge to such a debate. Perhaps you just had not been notified, but I readily accepted that challenge in statements on both March 21 and April 4.
So, let's get started. I'm happy to have this debate with you, and my staff will contact yours shortly to begin working out the logistics.
Given the fact that we have both outlined very different proposals on how to deal with skyrocketing homeowner taxes across Virginia, I propose that we have a separate debate to focus on this important issue. Let's give people a chance to hear us each discuss why we believe our respective plans are better and then let them decide.
I also look forward to future debates focusing on the other important issues facing Virginia, including education, keeping our economy strong and creating better jobs, health care, public safety and many others.
Jerry, as candidates for governor, we owe it to Virginians to stand before them and take tough questions about our agendas. Let's give Virginians a chance to see us side by side unscripted, so that they can size us up and decide for themselves who has the better plan for Virginia's future and who would be a more effective governor.
Politicians always talk about "trusting the people." Let's show the people of Virginia that we mean it by giving them the opportunity to see us up close and personal.
I look forward to hearing back from you. Until then, best wishes and safe travels on the campaign trail.
Sincerely,
Tim Kaine
Democratic Candidate
To date, Jerry Kilgore has refused Tim Kaine's invitation. Why? Is it arrogance? Over-confidence? Or does Kilgore fear that he'll get whupped in a mano-a-mano debate with Kaine? Maybe all of the above? You decide.