“It has been apparent from the very beginning that Kate never wanted a real debate.  Obviously, her handlers have no interest in her being on a debate stage with David.  Instead, Kate would rather hide behind her computer where her campaign team can provide her with prepared answers and statements like they have done throughout the entire campaign,” said Richter campaign manager Tom Bonfonti.

“Just to be clear, it was the Gibbs campaign that walked away from debate negotiations, not our campaign.  Earlier this morning, I responded to a request from debate moderator Matt Rooney for me and Gibbs’ campaign manager, Angelo Lamberto, to continue negotiations with him on either Zoom or a conference call.  I immediately accepted.  Without responding to Matt’s request, 40 minutes later the Gibbs campaign issued their press release.  At no point did anyone from the Richter campaign end negotiations.  Ultimately, it is disappointing but hardly surprising that Kate continues to run a campaign based on lies and misrepresentations to the voters,” added Bonfonti.