Some New Hampshire Democrats are urging the presidential candidates to schedule another debate before the first-in-the-nation primary Feb. 9.
“Bernie, Hillary, and Martin: you are running for the highest office in the land; the most influential in the world,” the Democrats wrote in a letter to the candidates. “Yet the overwhelming majority of voters have not seen you on one stage; jousting for the greater good. Your televised contests garner viewership far inferior to the Republicans, who with each frequent debate dominate the national conversation.”
For 32 years, there has been a Democratic debate after the Iowa caucuses, this year set for Feb. 1, and before the New Hampshire primary, the letter says.
The effort is being organized by New Hampshire Debates, an organization that has been pushing for more joint appearances between the candidates. It includes supporters of all three major candidates.
The Democratic National Committee scheduled six debates. Four have been conducted, but the next doesn’t come until Feb. 11. Party officials have said candidates would not be able to participate if they engage in non-sanctioned debates.
Anita Kumar: 202-383-6017, @anitakumar01