Debate Set for Republican AG Candidates on July 31

Locked in a close primary battle with a little over a month until the primary election, the three candidates fighting it out for the Republican nomination for attorney general announced on Wednesday that they would hold a debate on Saturday, July 31.

The debate between Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp, former Agency for Health Care Administration Secretary Holly Benson and former Assistant State Attorney Pam Bondi will be held at noon on the Florida Decides Forum show which will be hosted by Bay News 9 in Tampa and News 13 in Orlando.

I want to thank Bay News 9 and Central Florida News 13 for agreeing to host a debate between the Republican candidates for Florida attorney general on July 31, said Kottkamp. This will be a great opportunity for people along the I-4 corridor to hear from the candidates and decide who is best prepared to serve as their chief legal officer.

I also want to thank my two opponents in this race for agreeing to this debate, he added. I look forward to sharing the stage with them on July 31 and talking about issues important to all Floridians.

I am looking forward to a vigorous discussion on the issues facing our state, and I am glad that we were able to agree upon our first televised debate, said Benson. This televised debate will be a great opportunity for the voters of Florida to see the differences between the candidates for Florida attorney general.

Looking to tap into the anti-incumbent political mood, Bondi responded by contrasting her record with those of her opponents.

"I look forward to debating my opponents on July 31st and am confident the voters will see the clear choice between my experience as a prosecutor and the political careers of my opponents," said Bondi. "I have spent nearly two decades in a courtroom prosecuting criminals, and I have the legal experience and qualifications necessary to continue my work as Florida's next attorney general."