STAMPONE RENEWS CALL FOR DEBATES

15 days without a response from Fusco

May 20, 2010

Haledon, NJ – Today Haledon Mayor Domenick Stampone called upon his opponent to answer his call for public debates moderated by objective third parties prior to the June 8th Democratic Primary Election.

“On May 5th – over 15 days ago – I issued a challenge to my opponent to debate the issues facing Haledon and our community so the voters can be fully informed of our records and stances prior to the June 8th Primary,” stated Stampone. “Unfortunately my opponent has still refused to even respond to our request. This is a direct insult to the Haledon community. The residents deserve public forums where we can debate our differences and varying visions for the future of Haledon.”

Today a running clock will be placed on DomenickStampone.com counting down the time elapsed since the debate challenge was issued. It will serve as a public reminder for Haledon residents, voters, and members of the Haledon Democratic Party.

“Instead of littering Haledon with tasteless and untrue smear attacks on Mayor Stampone and our ticket, our opponents should engage in public debates,” stated Council President Maha Kandis. “Our community needs serious, responsible leaders who communicate clearly and effectively express their opinions on the issues that matter to us – not someone who is hiding behind fliers stuffed in our mailboxes.”

Please visit DomenickStampone.com for more information on the campaign and about the Stampone Administration’s strong record of always putting Haledon residents first.

Below is the letter Mayor Domenick Stampone mailed to his opponent on May 5th.

Primary Election Day is Tuesday, June 8th.

Dear Councilman Fusco,

Public debates are a cornerstone of American democracy and essential to the electoral process. I am sure you agree that our neighbors here in Haledon deserve the best possible opportunity to learn about our positions on the issues facing our borough.

I’ve always fought to put Haledon first, and throughout my time in office, I’ve made every effort to stress transparency and accountability.

In that vein, it is important for us to share a common forum to debate the issues so the voters are best able make an informed decision on who they will ultimately support in the June Primary.

I am proposing three debates - two mayoral debates and one featuring the six Council candidates. We can negotiate forums, moderators, and locations at your convenience. I hope to hear from you soon to get these public forums scheduled and organized.

Respectfully,

Mayor Domenick Stampone