Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) committed to three debates against GOP challenger Herschel Walker before the November midterm elections.
The contest between the two is expected to be a top battleground for control of the U.S. Senate, drawing national attention and attracting millions in outside spending.
In a statement pledging participation, Warnock cited his record as a lawmaker.
“When the people of Georgia elected me, I committed to working hard for all Georgians – and that’s what I have done: working to lower costs for Georgia families by capping the cost of prescription drugs, suspending the federal gas tax, and holding corporations accountable for price gouging. The people of Georgia will have to make a decision about who is best able to represent the people of Georgia,” said Warnock. “The debates are an opportunity for Georgians to see the clear choice they have in this important election.”
While he touted his effort to suspend the federal gas tax, the effort did not advance in the Senate: therefore, gas prices have continued to rise across the state. Consumers have received little relief – except for a repeal of the state gas tax led by Republican Governor Brian Kemp.
Previously, GOP nominee Walker contended that he looked forward to taking on the Democrat. Walker did not debate his GOP counterparts in the primary, where he won overwhelmingly.
“Oh, I’m ready to debate Raphael Warnock,” Walker said in early May. “When he’s ready to go, I’m ready to go. Anytime he shows up, I’ll show up right there with him.”
Furthermore, the former University of Georgia running back has already attacked Warnock for his close ties to President Joe Biden and Democrat Caucus Leader Chuck Schumer.
“In the Senate, Raphael Warnock supports Joe Biden 96 percent of the time and votes with Chuck Schumer 99 percent of the time. Warnock supports crippling energy regulations, doubling gas prices, and driving up the costs of the groceries we buy,” a new ad says.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Georgia Star News and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Herschel Walker” by Herschel Walker.Â