Alp Basaran Revises Debate Challenge in Light of Pascrell Photo Shoot with Erdogan Family Member

June 8, 2020

As reported by The Record, Bill Pascrell accepted the debate challenge by Alp Basaran. However, Pascrell did not return messages from Basaran to discuss the format and timing of the debate.

In the meantime, Pascrell violated social distancing rules to appear in photos with Dr. Halil Mutlu, the cousin of President Erdogan of Turkey. The pair were distributing medical supplies from the Turkish American Steering Committee to a Paterson hospital.

Basaran had originally requested a virtual debate with Pascell because seniors are most at risk during the coronavirus pandemic. “The circumstances have changed,” said Basaran. “If Pascrell can attend a photo shoot in person, then Pascrell can attend a debate in person.”

The Turkish American Steering Committee (TASC) is a non-profit group that has been active in lobbying efforts on behalf of the governing political party of Turkey. Dr. Halil Mutlu assumed the leadership of TASC after the FBI questioned former TASC leaders on suspicion of political espionage.

“I am very glad our hospitals are gaining more supplies,” said Basaran. “That being said, I wish our congresspeople had performed their duties in the past so that we would not need critical donations from abroad.”

The following photos are from the social media of the Pascrell campaign.