A Democratic candidate in New York’s 24th Congressional District is pushing to reshape the primary contest, calling for a series of debates she says will give voters a clearer view of who is best positioned to challenge the incumbent this fall.
Diana Kastenbaum on Tuesday urged her fellow Democratic candidates to commit to five debates before the June 23 primary, arguing that a robust public exchange of ideas is essential in a district her campaign believes is within reach for Democrats.
Kastenbaum’s campaign said the proposed debates would be held across the district in Lockport, Watertown, Canandaigua, Oswego, and Batavia, incorporating both traditional debate formats and town hall-style events to engage voters directly.
Campaign manager Hugh Smyth said the push reflects what the campaign sees as growing demand for more substantive discussion around key issues.
“Voters deserve a thorough understanding of what each candidate is all about,” Smyth said, emphasizing the importance of direct comparisons between candidates.
Kastenbaum framed the proposal as a strategic step toward strengthening the Democratic nominee ahead of the general election, where Republicans currently hold the seat.
“We believe Claudia Tenney is beatable, but only if we nominate the strongest possible candidate,” Kastenbaum said in the release, adding that multiple debates would test candidates’ ideas, judgment, and ability to connect with voters across the district.
Her campaign said it will begin reaching out to media outlets and civic organizations to organize and host the proposed events, while also calling on opposing campaigns to publicly commit to participating.
Kastenbaum said she is prepared to debate anywhere in the district, arguing that voters should have ample opportunity to evaluate candidates before casting their ballots.
“This campaign is about earning trust,” she said. “I am ready to stand on any stage, anywhere in NY-24, and make my case.”
The Democratic primary is scheduled for June 23.
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