In a democratic society, every voice should be heard and every candidate, regardless of their past experiences or electoral journey, should be given an equal opportunity to present their vision and ideas to the public. I am writing this with a heavy heart and determination to spark a change, not just for myself, but for every candidate who has faced the unfairness of exclusion.

Having previously contested the mayoral race, I know firsthand the struggles of being sidelined, overlooked, and excluded from platforms that should ideally celebrate diversity of thoughts and political inclusivity. Despite being a legitimate candidate then, and even now in the governor's race, I find myself battling the same discriminatory barriers. It is not just disheartening; it's a blatant disregard for democratic principles and has the severe consequence of election interference.

Exclusion from statewide televised debates prevents voters from making informed decisions. Candidates, regardless of their political stature or past electoral outcomes, deserve the chance to engage with the public, answer tough questions, and present their plans for a better New York. The integrity of our elections depends on an open and fair platform where all voices are heard.

By allowing only a handful of candidates to participate in these debates, we are denying the public the full spectrum of choices, limiting democracy, and indirectly influencing election outcomes. It raises concerns about transparency and fairness in our electoral process, concerns that affect all current and future candidates.

Governor candidates should be judged on their ideas, their potential to lead, and their ability to resonate with the electorate. Television debates are critical opportunities to reach a larger audience, to state your case beyond individual campaign events, and to engage in a meaningful dialogue with both opponents and the electorate.

I urge the governing bodies responsible for organizing political debates in New York to adapt a more inclusive approach by ensuring that all valid gubernatorial candidates are allowed to participate in televised debates. This change is not only vital for fairness and democracy but for empowering voters to make informed choices.

Sign this petition to demand that all New York Governor candidates be allowed to participate in televised debates, ensuring a fair and democratic electoral process.