Call for debates in governor’s race

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) >> In New York state government news, the challengers hoping to oust Gov. Andrew Cuomo say the Democrat is dragging his feet on debates.

Meanwhile, environmental groups are angry that a state task force created to address drinking water contamination missed a key deadline. They’re urging Cuomo and state health officials to act now to address toxic contamination around the state, including in Hoosick Falls, Newburgh and Long Island.

A look at stories making news:

DODGING DEBATES?

There are no debates scheduled in the gover-

nor’s race so far, and only a month to go before the Nov. 6 election.

Cuomo, seeking a third term, faces Republican Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, Green Party nominee Howie Hawkins and independent candidate Stephanie Miner, the former mayor of Syracuse. Libertarian candidate Larry Sharpe is also on the ballot.

Molinaro accused Cuomo of ducking debates last week, saying that he’s willing to participate in several debates — though he wants them to be oneon-one with Cuomo.

“I am proud to talk about my record and vision for New York, but it’s clear that Andrew Cuomo can’t say the same,” he said. “I see debates as a public obligation for those privileged enough to serve in public office. Mr. Cuomo, evidently, sees debates as forums at which he’ll be forced to address corrupt practices and economic failures that have become the hallmarks of his tenure in Albany.”

Polls show Cuomo is well ahead in the race. He’s also outpacing his opponents in fundraising, giving him little need for the free publicity offered by a debate. His challengers, however, have much more to gain. That’s especially true for Miner and Hawkins, who could use the debate to take their message to a broader audience.

For Molinaro the calculus is more complicated. A one-on-one matchup with Cuomo would highlight his criticism of the incumbent. But a four-way debate would offer less speaking time to the GOP candidate, while putting his challenge on par with his third-party rivals.

Cuomo has not yet committed to a debate. He recently told reporters that the campaigns will have to negotiate the details.

“That’s something we have to talk about,” he said.