On July 22, Democratic candidate Eric Jones challenged Rep. Mike Thompson to ten debates. Photo courtesy of Magnific


NAPA, CA (MPG)  – Eric Jones, Democratic candidate for California's 4th Congressional District challenged Rep. Mike Thompson to ten debates: one in each of the district's nine counties, with at least one televised debate for voters who can't attend in person.

"Prop 50 completely redrew this district last November. It now stretches over 160 miles, from Petaluma to Yuba County, and includes nearly a million people who have never had the chance to hear directly from their member of Congress," Jones said. 

"Congressman Thompson has represented the Western part of this region for nearly 30 years, but a majority of voters in this new district's very first primary chose someone other than him. Voters in Colusa, Lake, Napa, Placer, Sacramento, Sonoma, Sutter, Yolo and Yuba counties all deserve the chance to see both of us debate the most pressing issues impacting their communities."

“Nearly half of the voters in this district are new to the congressional district. They deserve more than campaign commercials and talking points,” Jones said. “They deserve a representative who will show up, answer tough questions, and earn their trust. A debate isn't about the candidates; it's about giving the people a fair opportunity to compare our visions for the future. Congressman Thompson and I strongly differ on issues like healthcare costs, housing, corruption and the rising cost of living. Let the voters hear the differences and decide for themselves.”

“In every conversation I’ve had with voters, people are demanding solutions: lowering healthcare costs, housing they can afford, expanding Medicare, and ending Washington corruption. I’m proud to have put forward real proposals on every one of those issues. The question is simple, Mike: where do you stand? And when it counts, will you actually take a position, or will you slink away and vote ‘present’ like you did just last week?”

Jones pointed to the certified June 2 primary results as evidence of an appetite for a debate: Thompson finished with under 41% of the vote, meaning 59% of CA-04 voters chose a candidate other than the incumbent.

The Jones campaign today formally issued the challenge to Thompson's campaign and will work with local civic organizations, chambers of commerce and news outlets in each county to host the events.