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Democratic Delegate Elizabeth Guzman (D-Prince William) is calling out her Republican opponent in House District 31 for skipping a candidate forum on the same day that he called for candidate debates. Guzman said she is excited that her opponent, Ben Baldwin, wants to give the constituents a chance to hear about the work she has been doing for the last four years.
“I’m excited for the chance to speak directly with constituents about what I’ve been able to accomplish in Richmond,” Guzman said Tuesday. “Meanwhile, on the same day my opponent called for more debates, he skipped a candidates forum that I attended.”
Earlier in the day Tuesday, her opponent Ben Baldwin released a statement calling for two debates against the two-term incumbent. “It is important that voters see their candidates and learn more about their policies. I appreciate this opportunity and I am glad that Delegate Guzman has accepted as well,” Ben Baldwin said.
Guzman faced a tough primary challenger in Rod Hall earlier this year but the support of the Democratic House caucus helped her prevail comfortably. Now she is facing Baldwin, a marine veteran and financial advisor.
Guzman won in 2017 by 9 points, but her margin of victory actually decreased n in 2019 when she won by only five points.
“I’ve hosted over 30 town halls during my time in office, and I have never shied away from engaging with voters and constituents on the issues that will improve the lives of working families in the 31st District,” Guzman said. “I look forward to the upcoming debate, and I hope my opponent shows up.”
Baldwin did not immediately respond to the request for comment.
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