OPINION: Is 'Too Busy' an Excuse? It's Debatable

Statement from Dashe Videira on Senator Becca Rausch's Refusal to Debate

As a Republican candidate for the Norfolk, Worcester, and Middlesex District State Senate seat, I am deeply disappointed by Senator Becca Rausch's refusal to participate in an open debate.

In 2018, when Senator Rausch was running for her seat, her opponent, Republican Richard Ross, faced significant criticism for declining to engage in a debate with her.  The League of Women Voters issued a combined statement at that time, stating, “When candidates refuse to participate in opportunities to help their future constituents learn more about them, this is a loss for voters.” Senator Rausch rallied support around this issue, emphasizing how crucial it is for voters to engage with candidates.

Now, however, she is repeating the very behavior she once opposed by refusing to debate me. Despite the League of Women Voters approving a forum and the Tri-County Chamber of Commerce requesting a debate, Senator Rausch has declined to participate. An email from the League confirmed, "Becca Rausch is unable to participate in the forum prior to the start of early voting, so we will not be holding a State Senator forum this year."

At a recent town hall meeting, when asked directly by a constituent if she would debate her opponent, Senator Rausch stated, “I have always engaged in debates and forums; unfortunately, this year my schedule fills up literal months in advance.” She further added, “There is just no more time; everything is booked all the way through pretty much to Thanksgiving at this stage of the game.”

This refusal to debate is not just an avoidance of accountability; it reflects a troubling focus on national politics rather than the pressing issues that families face here in our district. While Senator Rausch appears to be focused on canvassing for federal figures like Senators Warren and Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential run, families in Massachusetts are facing real, immediate issues, such as rising living costs, a mental health crisis among our youth, and a struggling education system.

I am dedicated to fostering unity, accountability, and opportunity in my campaign. It is crucial for voters to hear directly from their elected officials about their positions and priorities. Debates serve as an important platform for our constituents' voices to be heard, which I believe is essential. I am fully prepared and eager to participate in a debate, and I urge Senator Rausch to put her constituents first, despite her busy schedule.

For more information about my campaign, please visit VoteforDashe.com.

Dashe Videira

Candidate for the Norfolk, Worcester, Middlesex District

Image: Sen Becca Rausch at Franklin Senior Center,  Sept 24, 2024