Why Debates Matter

I called on Rep. John Conyers to attend a debate. Thus far, four forums have been held in the new 13th Congressional District, and Mr. Conyers has not participated in any of them.

I understand his strategy from a political standpoint. His highly-paid consultants could be telling him: "You have the name recognition and you've been there 47 years, don't dignify your opponent with a debate." Though I recognize this might be the advice he is getting, from a public service standpoint, I find his tactics reprehensible.

John Conyers flip-flopped districts with another sitting congressman in order to compete in what he thought would be an easy ride to his next term, extending his nearly five decade reign. This decision illustrates his lack of respect for voters. This district is more than 50 percent brand new to him. They deserve to hear him defend his positions, articulate his plans and justify his reasoning for running for yet another term.

If Mr. Conyers cannot face me in a debate, how can we expect him to stand up to the Republican U.S. Speaker of the House John Boehner or any of the hardline, right-wing Tea Party members in Congress? The answer is, we can't. For more than a decade, Mr. Conyers has been ineffective as a Congressman. He has not passed significant legislation for at least a decade. In 2012, we need fresh, energetic representation.

I will meet him any time and in any venue. I am challenging Detroit's media outlets to provide a live, televised debate in which we can stand in front of the voters and earn their votes. Just as voting is fundamental to our system of government, informed voting makes it work correctly.

In the meantime, you can find out more about me and my positions on the issues at www.BertJohnson4Congress.com and www.Facebook.com/SenBertJohnson. You can also call my campaign directly at 313-915-0129. Follow along with me at www.Twitter.com/SenBertJohnson.