John Rutherford, Hans Tanzler call for all seven CD 4 candidates to debate

Hans Tanzler and John Rutherford are slated to go mano a mano on WJXT-TV Wednesday as part of the 4th Congressional District debate, but their attitude is the more the merrier on the stage.

The debate is currently restricted to the top four in polls, now Tanzler, Rutherford, Lake Ray and Bill McClure.

But Tanzler and Rutherford want all seven candidates in the mix.

“As I’ve previously said, voters should have the opportunity to hear from all candidates. I would welcome the other candidates if they are allowed to join the debate,” Rutherford said in a statement Tuesday.

This follows Tanzler’s statement Monday.

“I firmly believe that all candidates have the right to make their case, and District 4 voters deserve the opportunity to be fully informed before casting their votes. To not allow all candidates to participate on the stage would be disingenuous to voters of District 4,” said Tanzler. “I hope all of my fellow candidates will join me in urging our debate hosts to open it up to everyone. The only poll that really matters is the one on Aug. 30, and until then, let’s let the voters make up their own minds.”