Renacci Challenges DeWine To Debate Without Live Audience

"If DeWine is worried about getting booed by protesters, then I challenge him to a debate without a live audience and without interruptions."

Mike DeWine said last week he is refusing to attend the debate because he is worried it would be too "entertaining" and not "productive." The Renacci campaign has a response for DeWine and the debate organizers: set up the debate without a live audience.

Jim Renacci is challenging Mike DeWine to a live-streamed debate without a live audience, without interruptions, with an impartial moderator asking questions focused on policy about the candidates' records and their plans for the future of Ohio. Jim Renacci will be there, but as he has made clear, a gubernatorial debate without the governor is not a gubernatorial debate. Renacci released the following statement:

"If DeWine is worried about getting booed by protesters, then I challenge him to a debate without a live audience and without interruptions. DeWine hiding from tough questions by the Ohioans whose livelihoods he destroyed and voters he's let down is simply inexcusable. Ohio Republican primary voters deserve a real debate not just about DeWine's record, but about our competing plans for the future of Ohio. I look forward to an independent moderator and group willing to host the policy debate under this format and invite the Governor and the other candidates to a real gubernatorial debate, but a gubernatorial debate without the Governor is not a gubernatorial debate."