It is indefensible, unconscionable, and unfair to voters and candidates that no debates have yet been held with all candidates in Maine's Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Maine House Speaker Sara Gideon continues to refuse to participate, despite repeated attempts to schedule debates by her fellow Democratic candidates and news outlets.

This is a massively important primary in which voters need the benefit of debates to decide which candidate will best represent our needs and will fight vigorously for them in the Senate - especially in this time when the country is in severe crisis on multiple fronts. With Ranked Choice Voting in this primary, it is even more incumbent on voters and candidates to ensure voters are well informed before filling out our ballots.

Democrats have reveled in criticizing Senator Susan Collins for refusing to communicate with the public. This behavior on the part of Speaker Gideon is no different. Mail-in voting for the July 14th election is imminent. Debates need to happen now. 

Enough is enough. Step up, Speaker Gideon.