Voters will now have one less chance to see the candidates running for Baltimore County Executive square off.
Democrat John Olszewski dropped out of a debate that had been planned for this Friday, October 5. He was scheduled to debate Republican Al Redmer, Jr. at the North Point Government Center in Dundalk, but now Olszewski says he has an unexpected family obligation.
The organizers of the debate were not happy with the news, calling it in a release a "broken promise" by Olszewski to debate several important issues. They also apologized to voters and Redmer for having to cancel the debate, saying "The 7th District Civic Council of Baltimore County Debate Committee thanks Mr. Redmer's unwavering commitment to a transparent and rigorous election process including Baltimore County's apparently forgotten and forgone 7th district voters."
Redmer's campaign posted on Facebook that "this isn't the first time Johnny O has turned his back on District 7, and if he is elected county executive it certainly won't be the last.:
Olszewski responded with a statement saying "I'd hope my opponent would provide the same respect and courtesy I afforded him when he had to miss a debate with the Baltimore Sun to address a family matter earlier this year."
Back in June Redmer refused to participate in a debate against Delegate Pat McDonough, his main opponent in the primaries. Redmer had claimed it was because of a scheduling conflict, but later said he refused to share a stage with Del. McDonough.
There are several other debates between Redmer and Olszewski planned before election day, including one on Thursday, October 4 in Towson.
