Garrity challenges Shapiro to 7 debates in Pennsylvania governor race

(WHTM) — Treasurer Stacy Garrity (R) posed a unique challenge on Tuesday to Gov. Josh Shapiro (D), her opponent in this year’s gubernatorial election.

In a press release issued by her campaign, Garrity called for seven public debates between her and Shapiro, one in each of the state’s media markets, before November’s election.

The release noted that the Shapiro campaign agreed to engage “in good faith” with team Garrity on the details of a debate.

Manuel Bonder, a spokesman for Shapiro’s reelection campaign, reiterated the campaign’s willingness to talk but said, “We aren’t going to negotiate the terms of a debate through the press.”

Garrity’s proposal is unusually high. Shapiro and State Rep. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin) failed to meet for a debate ahead of the 2022 election. Former Gov. Tom Wolf (D) debated Republican challenger Scott Wagner just once in 2018.

Typically, there are just three presidential debates during the general election.

Garrity said the debates would give voters as much information as possible before they make their decision at the ballot box.

“Every voter should have the opportunity to learn where we stand on issues, what are our visions for the future of the Commonwealth, and what experience we bring to the table to lead 13 million Pennsylvanians for the next four years,” Garrity said.