September 16, 2024Michele Frazier Opponent, Peter Oberacker, Backs Out of Planned Debate
Michele Frazier, candidate for New York State Senate District 51, announced today that her opponent Peter Oberacker has backed out of their scheduled debate for September 18th. Gold Bold Media, Catskill News and the Mid-Hudson News planned the debate, which was to be held at the Liberty Theater in Sullivan County this Wednesday. The Frazier campaign accepted the invitation in mid-July for the debate.
“Adequate representation and accountability from our elected officials are the two crucial parts of our Democracy ” Frazier said. “Clearly, my opponent doesn’t think he has to answer to us for his record.” Frazier added, “My opponent’s record is abysmal. He doesn’t want to be held accountable by his constituents. He voted against the Child Tax Credit. He voted against protecting doctors from prosecution for performing reproductive care. In fact, the only bill Oberacker has voted in favor of, was a bill that gave him a pay raise.”
Oberacker debated both previous democratic challengers: Jim Barber (2020) and Eric Ball (2022). Frazier said, “The fact that he was willing to debate in the past is notable given that this race is the first time he has to answer for his record on women’s rights to a woman candidate.”
“I want a representative who shows up for their constituents when they’re called on to do so. The avoidance of accountability from Senator Oberacker is concerning and damaging to our district. When I represent the 51st District, I’ll listen to all of my constituents and put their needs first in Albany. While I’m disappointed in my opponent's withdrawal from the debate, I’m looking to move forward and keep up our momentum as we head into the final 50 days of this race.”
Senator Oberacker’s campaign has declined any future debate invitations. If you were hoping to hear more about Michele’s platform at Wednesday’s debate please head to her website for her future events, her policy issues, and her background.
Michele Frazier grew up in her family’s flower and greenhouse business in Oneonta - one of the largest geranium growers in the state. A former Oneonta City Council member, Michele now lives in Delhi where she is an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice at SUNY Delhi. She lives with her spouse and three sons, two of whom are neurodivergent. Michele is also a Real Estate Agent for a locally owned real estate company. www.michelefrazierfor51.com
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