Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, July 13, 1993                   TAG: 9307130171
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-4   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: GREG EDWARDS STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: CHRISTIANSBURG                                LENGTH: Medium

RUSH CALLS FOR DELEGATE DEBATES; DEMOCRATS SAY IT'S A POLITICAL PLOY

But recalling a long history of debates during legislative races in the New River Valley, a spokesman for his opponent characterized Rush's challenge as an unnecessary political ploy.

In a letter to Democrat Jim Shuler of Blacksburg, Rush has proposed a series of "at least" six debates: two each in Christiansburg, Blacksburg and Giles County.

"I hope that this campaign will be clean and informative, one that sticks to the issues that affect the voters of the 12th District," Rush said in his letter, dated July 7.

Rush said he was proposing the debates as a way of fostering an "issue-oriented atmosphere." He asked Shuler to respond to his invitation in writing by Wednesday.

Shuler said Monday he is ready to debate Rush any time, any place and in any forum.

In a response to Rush, Shuler said he, too, is "interested in an informative campaign based on the issues."

But rather than responding to Rush's suggestion that Shuler's staff work with Rush's staff to set up times, sponsors and rules for the debates, Shuler said he was "looking forward to the debates and forums that have historically been a part of campaigns in this area.

"A number of organizations have sponsored these events in the past and I assume that will be true this year, also," Shuler said.

Paul Mitchem, an adviser to Shuler, said at least eight debates probably will take place during the course of the campaign - sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, Tech faculty, League of Women Voters and other groups.

It will be to Shuler's advantage to take part in as many debates as possible, Mitchem said. "Jim can more than hold his own against Nick," he said.

Rush said Monday afternoon that he was glad that Shuler had accepted his offer to debate. "Eight [debates] sounds fine to be; 16 sounds better." But he said that he had not yet received Shuler's response through the mail.

Rush and Shuler are seeking the legislative seat held for the past 10 years by Del. Joan Munford, D-Blacksburg, who is not seeking re-election. Munford, whom Mitchem has served as a legislative aide, has endorsed Shuler.

Keywords:
POLITICS