Billy Long: I have better things to do than debate Jim Evans

(From Seventh District Democratic Congressional Candidate Jim Evans)

Representative Billy Long’s recent comments regarding invitations to participate in discussions of issues with Jim Evans simply constitute a clear refusal to make himself available to the public and media in an open forum where his views can be subjected to critical examination.

The Springfield News-Leader on August 29 reported that Long “In response to a News-Leader question about whether he would debate” said, “…I'm busy working so I'm not going to worry about — until it gets a little closer to November and we can talk about political strategy but I'm not interested in talking about that right now."

In that same article, Jim Evans responded, "What does he mean 'political strategy’? We're not talking political strategy. The public has a right to hear directly from elected officials, candidates."

On Thursday, September 4, KSMU Radio reported that Jim Evans “is scheduling a series of discussions throughout the district” and that “Long has been invited to participate. But Long said Thursday he does not plan to attend any of the debates. Asked why not, the lawmaker stated: ‘There’s eight congressional seats in the state, there’s zero debates this year.’ ”

In a prior media release launching this series, the vision and purpose of Jim’s endeavor was clearly stated:

Jim Evans is committed to transparency and authenticity in his campaign and his prospective service in Congress. He believes that every citizen of Southwest Missouri deserves the opportunity to participate in open public discussions of the critical issues which profoundly affect their lives and the lives of succeeding generations.

In accord with that commitment and belief, Jim will begin a series of forums focused on subjects of compelling interest to area residents as voters, workers, business owners, retirees, students, farmers, veterans, neighbors and family members.

Billy Long’s denial of duty does not diminish Jim’s devotion to a higher standard of public service and access to constituents. With Congressman Long, or, as apparently will be the case, without him, Jim Evans will persevere in providing these opportunities for Ozarks citizens.

Ozarkers deserve no less.