Democrat Andy Schmookler has challenged Republican Rep. Bob Goodlatte to a series of debates in the race for the sixth Congressional district. Schmookler called the challenge a "game changer."

He called for three debates to be held in Harrisonburg, Lynchburg, and Roanoke.

All of this was expected, but so far Goodlatte has not officially agreed to any debates, and hasn't appeared on television with Schmookler.
Schmookler says Goodlatte must earn his seat, and in order to do that must debate challengers and opposing ideas.

"People have said to me since the beginning of the campaign how important it is to have debates and how Mr. Goodlatte has a pattern of avoiding any kind of encounter where anything unexpected might happen or anything might be elicited from him that he doesn't control," said Schmookler.

In response, Goodlatte's office sent the following statement:

"Congressman Goodlatte has always debated his Democratic opponents. He is confident that the voters of the Sixth District will embrace his message to repeal Obamacare, cut spending and amend the United States Constitution to require a Balanced Budget. We will work to determine a schedule after Congress adjourns."