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MARIETTA - Washington County Commissioner Greg Nohe (R) challenged fellow candidate Justin Harris along with an invitation to John Rauch (D) to participate in a moderated debate before the November election on Friday.
Nohe asked Harris to attend the debate after his absence at the Sept. 30 "Living Democracy: Engaging Citizens" candidate forum at Marietta High School and called on Harris to provide available dates.
Nohe, Rauch, and Harris are on the ballot for Washington County Commissioner for the two year unexpired term.
"Seeking public office means making time for the people you want to represent," Nohe said. "Mr. Harris was absent Wednesday evening. Voters deserve to hear his positions, question whatever proposals he may have and compare his plans with (Nohe and Rauch's). I'm prepared to have that conversation and he should be too."
Nohe proposed a debate with equal time for each candidate and questions addressing tax issues, economic development, public safety and local priorities. The date location, moderator and format would be established by the participating candidates.
Nohe said a public debate would allow voters to evaluate each candidate's preparation for the responsibilities of county government.
"Voters are deciding whom to trust with their tax dollars and the future of this county," Nohe said. "I'm ready to defend my record and explain the work ahead. Mr. Harris, give us your available dates. Let's put a debate on the calendar."
Rauch said he welcomes the debate to "give voters a better idea of how they think we will perform."
He said that Nohe, Harris and himself work to prioritize campaigns focused on the voters’ concerns rather than individual relationships.
"The voters will decide, so we're going to take it," Rauch said, "We're going to put out our best case and not throw rocks at one another."
Justin Harris was not immediately available for a comment.