Wed Sep 18 00:52:00 UTC 2024: ## Stauber Agrees to Single Debate After Criticism for Dodging Voters

**Duluth, MN** – Early voting for the 8th Congressional District begins on September 20th, but residents are facing a limited opportunity to hear from candidates before casting their ballots. While DFL challenger Jen Schultz has expressed willingness to participate in multiple debates, incumbent Republican Rep. Pete Stauber initially refused all proposed debates, including those hosted by Almanac North, the News Tribune, and the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce.

Stauber only agreed to a single debate hosted by WDIO-TV after Schultz publicly called him out for dodging voters. This lone debate will be the only opportunity for residents of the vast 8th District, larger than 10 states, to compare the candidates’ views.

Critics suggest Stauber’s reluctance to participate in public forums stems from his limited legislative record and his tendency to blame others for his inaction. They argue that he relies on divisive rhetoric, citing questionable sources, and taking credit for projects he opposed.

“This isn’t about Stauber’s desire to run for governor, it’s about voters struggling with inflation and hoping their representative is fighting for them,” one letter writer to the Duluth News Tribune stated. “Stauber’s unwillingness to debate only reinforces his lack of engagement with the issues that matter to his constituents.”

With early voting underway, voters have limited time to evaluate the candidates. The single debate, while better than none, offers a minimal platform for the public to hear from Stauber and make an informed decision.

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