Let the Debate Begin

We thank Republican Rep. James Rogan of Glendale and his Democratic challenger, state Sen. Adam Schiff of Burbank, for finally deigning to include the voters in their debate over debating.

The two candidates for the hotly contested 27th District seat wasted much of last week debating whether and how to hold a debate instead of going ahead and squaring off on the issues.

Schiff turned down invitations from a radio talk show and a cable television program, saying both moderators were conservatives who were “cherry-picked” by Rogan.

Schiff wanted a debate arranged by the League of Women Voters, local homeowner groups or other nonpartisan organizations. But instead of discussing other venues, Rogan’s campaign postured over Schiff’s refusal to debate on his terms.

It was enough to make one wonder whether either candidate has much of substance to offer.

Finally, on Friday, the two campaigns agreed to hold their first debate on the “Air Talk” radio show hosted by Larry Mantle on KPCC-FM (89.3). No date has been set. At last voters will have a chance to hear directly what the two candidates have to say about the issues and not just about each other.

This race will not only determine who will represent the 27th District but could determine which party controls the House after the November elections. And the outcome is far from predictable. The March 7 open primary saw the vote split 49% for Schiff, 47% for Rogan.

Debates produce their share of hyperbole and silliness, it’s true. But they also give voters a chance to see how candidates respond to spontaneous situations and how they react under pressure, to judge which responses ring true and whether the candidates address issues that matter.

Debates are far better than canned political speeches, slick commercials or spin from political consultants. An informed electorate depends on face-to-face debates--and the more of them, the better.