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Today, Steve Poizner launched an online petition calling for his opponent to join him in a debate at the California Republican Party Convention next month. Debates are an important part of the democratic process because voters need to know where the candidates stand on specific issues. What better venue for a debate than in front of hundreds of die-hard Republicans who are the heart and soul of the party. There are substantive differences between Steve and his opponent and voters deserve a debate where those differences are highlighted.

Here’s what Steve had to say in an e-mail to supporters:

Today, I come to you with an urgent and important request. Despite surveys showing that California Republican Party delegates, by a margin of 10-to-1, want a debate between the major Republican candidates for statewide office at next month’s CRP Convention, my opponent is refusing to allow such a debate to occur.

What’s even more insulting is that the Whitman campaign “doesn’t think anyone cares about [a] CRP debate,” according to their spokesman. This is not only incorrect, it disrespects every grassroots Republican who believes that competition is at the heart of our democracy and a core value for our Party. A Republican candidate for governor who is scared to debate in front of hundreds of diehard Republicans will have no chance in a general election against Jerry Brown.

Today, we are launching a petition on my website calling for Meg Whitman to join me in a debate at the California Republican Party Convention next month. Will you join me by signing it today?

There are substantive differences between my opponent and me, and I believe these differences should be discussed. I have proposed bold, across-the-board tax cuts to stimulate California’s economy. My opponent does not support across-the-board tax cuts. I have proposed a detailed, 20-page plan to close California’s $20 billion budget deficit. My opponent has not offered a budget plan. I have participated in four GOP gubernatorial debates. My opponent refused to attend every one of these debates.

Meg Whitman has endorsed liberal Sen. Barbara Boxer and claimed to be a “huge fan” of disgraced Obama green czar Van Jones, but now wants our party’s nomination for Governor without giving you a voice. I want your voice to be heard. Join me today by signing our petition for a substantive debate in front of the grassroots Republican activists at next month’s CRP Convention.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
Steve Poizner

Join Steve by signing the petition and demand that his opponent debate now!