Skip to main content
Thursday, October 29, 2026Oct 29

This story is free to read.

Readers Write: Not too late to have a debate

Then-Republican U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn speaks during a 2018 Tennessee U.S. Senate debate at The University of Tennessee in Knoxville. One Chattanooga Times Free Press reader wants to see more of this year's candidates participate in debates with their opponents (AP File Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Then-Republican U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn speaks during a 2018 Tennessee U.S. Senate debate at The University of Tennessee in Knoxville. One Chattanooga Times Free Press reader wants to see more of this year's candidates participate in debates with their opponents (AP File Photo/Mark Humphrey) Then-Republican U.S. Rep. Marsha Blackburn speaks during a 2018 Tennessee U.S. Senate debate at The University of Tennessee in Knoxville. One Chattanooga Times Free Press reader wants to see more of this year's candidates participate in debates with their opponents (AP File Photo/Mark Humphrey)

With elections fast approaching, many are still unclear about positions held by the candidates.

There is no better opportunity for candidates to reach voters they seek for support than a debate to clarify their platform and any misconceptions that may exist.

I trust our candidates who have thus far refused to debate will reconsider — starting from the governor’s race down ballot, so when they ask for our vote, we are clear what we’re voting for.

Vivian Ervin

Lynchburg, Tennessee