Republican Kallgren Ready to Debate; Democrat Dingell Drags Feet

Cynthia Kallgren, Republican candidate for the new 12th Congressional District has accepted an invitation from the Wyandotte Rotarians to debate the incumbent, John Dingell, on October 23, to be moderated by Rochelle Riley of the Detroit Free Press. However, even though the invitation was extended weeks ago, Dingell's office continues to stall.  Although stating that the debate date may interfere with congressional responsibilities, Dingell's office has suggested a solo appearance for the congressman before the Rotarians.

Kallgren recently won the Republican nomination for the new 12th District by edging out Karen Jacobson, a Dearborn business woman who outspent Kallgren by more than ten to one. Kallgren represents a "fresh face and a woman's voice," and is eager to contrast her message of financial responsibility and quality of life issues for constituents of the 12th District with Dingell's tax-and-spend habits of the past 57 years. Certified as a special education teacher when she graduated from EMU, Kallgren is married with adult children, and has operated a small business in Trenton. A community activist, she has worked on legislation affecting women's issues that has been adopted in Lansing.

The new 12th District covers Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Downriver and points between, and is a diverse slice of America with blue-collar towns, academic enclaves, immigrant communities, farms, and wealthy suburbs.  Click here for a map of the district.  You can find out more about Cynthia Kallgren at www.kallgrenforcongress.com