Candidates for Congress in the west suburban Third District have agreed to meet in their first debate on Aug. 21. Republican Erik Paulsen, DFLer Ashwin Madia and Independence Party hopeful David Dillon will appear at 8 a.m. at General Mills headquarters in Golden Valley at an event sponsored by the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce.
The race will determine the successor to longtime U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad, who is retiring, and the contest for a rare open seat is expected to be one of the most hotly contested congressional races in the country. Ramstad's consistent electoral success as a liberal Republican suggests that the district may be winnable for Democrats, and fundraising has been strong.
Candidates will field questions from moderators and those submitted in advance from audience members. The public is welcome, but there is a charge for admission. For more information, go to www.twinwest.com or call 763-450-2220.
D.J. TICE
