CRs Decline Debate with Dems

According to a letter to the editor by Rick Puig in Tuesday's Maneater, the Mizzou College Republicans declined to debate the College Democrats.

I will note here that I sought comment from the President of the Mizzou College Republicans, but did not get a response.

Here's the letter:

The readers might remember the College Republicans versus College Democrats debate that occurred before the 2006 Midterm Elections last fall. Although the outcome of the encounter was mildly contentious, it certainly furnished an incredible opportunity for MU students to observe the political perspectives of the university's student-led political organizations. With a showing of more than 300 attendees, the debate was, by any measure, a sweeping success that garnered media attention on and off campus.

It has come to my attention that the current leadership of the MU College Republicans is unwilling to pursue another campus debate, citing a hectic schedule.

Frankly, I am disappointed and surprised that the leadership of a young political organization doesn't have the time to give voice to its platform in a setting conducive to open public discourse. if the College Republicans don't think it is worth their time to engage young voters in a political conversation, why do they feel the need to exist?

Apparently, the College Republicans feel like they have better things to do than promote dialogue. I can only wonder what is on their agenda.

Coverage of last year's debate can be found here, here, and here. There was also a guest column in the Maneater by a College Republican entitled College Republicans Lacked Organization. That might have something to do with the College Republicans' hectic schedule. But on the other hand, you'd think they'd want to seek redemption.