2010 2010: UMass Dartmouth to host gubernatorial debate

2010 2010: UMass Dartmouth to host gubernatorial debate
UMass Dartmouth to host gubernatorial debate

Political Science Prof. Shannon Jenkins to moderate Sept. 30 meeting of four candidates

The four candidates for governor of Massachusetts have committed to attend a Sept. 30 debate at UMass Dartmouth hosted by the SouthCoast Alliance, a consortium of media, business, and community organizations. 

Governor Deval Patrick, Republican Charlie Baker, the former CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care; state Treasurer Timothy Cahill, running as an independent candidate; and Green Party candidate Jill Stein have all accepted the invitation of the Alliance to participate. 

The debate will begin at 2 p.m. and take place in the Main Auditorium and be moderated by UMass Dartmouth Political Science Professor Shannon Jenkins, who specializes in state government and politics. 

The SouthCoast Alliance includes the Standard-Times of New Bedford, Herald News of Fall River, WBSM radio of Fairhaven, WSAR radio of Fall River, the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Fall River Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Community Foundation of the Southeastern Massachusetts, and the Women's Fund of Southeastern Massachusetts. The Alliance hosted the final debate of the 2006 gubernatorial campaign and a 2009 U.S. Senate Democratic Primary debate. 

"This debate will provide the voters of the SouthCoast with an opportunity to assess the positions of the four candidates for Governor on the major issues confronting our region and the Commonwealth,'' said Community Foundation President Craig Dutra. 

Additional details will be announced at a later date. 

CONTACT:

Craig Dutra 
Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts 
508.996.8253 

John Hoey 
UMass Dartmouth 
508.999.8027 or 508.264.5920