Dem. DiNardo Calls on Herbst to Participate in 4 Debates

The following is a letter to the editor.

By Nancy DiNardo

Trumbull Democratic Town Chairwoman Nancy DiNardo has called on First Selectman Tim Herbst to commit to a series of debates with his Democratic opponent, Martha Jankovic-Mark.

DiNardo rejected Herbst’s contention, made last week to the Bridgeport Regional Business Council, that he is not available until October 31. 

“October 31 is far too late in the game for a first debate,” DiNardo said. “The residents of Trumbull deserve a chance to draw the measure of both candidates, side by side, responding to questions and critical issues unrehearsed, and responding to each other extemporaneously. And they deserve it in enough time to make an informed choice.”

DiNardo pointed out that in 2009, when Herbst was the Republican challenger, he called for a series of seven debates, one in each of the Town Council districts.

“Now he just wants one debate—on Halloween to boot,” she said. “The kids will be out trick or treating, but apparently it’s Tim Herbst who’s afraid.” 

DiNardo instead offered a counter-proposal: Four debates between Herbst and Jankovic-Mark, one in each Town Council district, all open to the public and all before the end of October, with at least one in the morning. “By Tim’s own 2009 approach, we should have four debates,” DiNardo said. “That year, Tim asked for seven. This year, thanks to the Republicans, we will only have four Council districts. So while our residents have diminished representation and longer trips to the polling places, this plays to Tim’s advantage, because he won't be whipped seven times, only four.”