Michael Stinfer

David Kolbe

Michael Stinfer, a Republican running as an Independent on the ballot for Indiana House District 22, will accept any form of debate proposed by a candidate or the community.

“I believe open debate is a bedrock of democracy. Brave men and women paid the ultimate sacrifice for this freedom, and I will gladly accept on that principle alone,” said Stinfer in response to Democratic candidate David Kolbe’s invitation for a debate. Kolbe announced last week that he wanted to have a debate between Stinfer and Republican candidate Curt Nisly, who has not yet accepted or acknowleged the offer. (See related)

Stinfer believes the three candidates should have four debates in four different parts of the district and fully welcomes un-reviewed questions. “Anyone can have an agency send out political mailers with approved messaging, but it isn’t enough. The fact is our community deserves more,” he said. “They should hear candidates respond to questions in person in their own words. Without debate, people generally won’t truly know the candidate they give their vote to. Anything less than debate or a refusal to participate disrespects democracy and every citizen who fights to uphold justice and our freedoms to do so.”

No time, date or location has yet been determined for the debate.