Mario Plays Hide-And-Go-Seek

Here is the most recent press release sent out by the campaign. I know all supporters are waiting to find out when a debate will be held ... the wait continues.

Melissa

Mario Diaz-Balart Continues to Hide from Joe Garcia and the Voters

(Miami, FL ) – For months now, Mario Diaz-Balart has been bobbing and weaving his way out of many debate proposals made by Democratic Candidate Joe Garcia. Now, it appears that Diaz-Balart is attempting to squirm out of his promise to attend a debate organized by Spanish network Univision on Wednesday, September 17, 2008.

“This is yet another example of how Mario Diaz-Balart is a typical Washington politician, showing utter contempt for the voters of the 25th District,” said Garcia. “He has no problem giving himself a raise five times, or voting against health insurance for our children. But ask him to explain those choices to his constituents, and he’s nowhere to be found.”

In fact, Diaz-Balart accepted—then declined—an offer to participate in a town-hall debate organized by union leaders. Just last week, Diaz-Balart refused to appear in a series of town halls alongside Garcia to discuss the worst problems South Floridians face—high energy prices and home foreclosures.

Congress is currently in the middle of a five-week-long recess. The town-hall debate would have been “a great opportunity to address the urgent issues which affect the District’s Hispanic community,” said Garcia. “Apparently, Mario Diaz-Balart can’t make time for his constituents, even when he is on vacation.”

When pressed on his reluctance to debate Garcia, Diaz-Balart touts his participation in a GenerationEngage event as evidence that he is not dodging Garcia. While this forum is a great way to introduce candidates to the youth, its audience is limited to those in attendance because it is not televised. It also does not allow interaction between the candidates.

“The voters deserve an honest and thorough debate on the important issues affecting South Florida,” said Garcia.