With 1 Week until First Debate - DeStefano Launches 'Debate' Ad

October 02, 2006

DeStefano Points to Empty Podium and says, "Let the Debate Begin."

New Haven: With exactly one week until the first gubernatorial debate between John DeStefano and Gov. Rell, the DeStefano campaign is announcing that it's about to launch a new TV ad focused on the upcoming debate and Gov. Rell's failure to deal with skyrocketing energy prices.

Electricity rates in Connecticut are already the highest in the continental United States and they're expected to rise as much as 50% for families across Connecticut. Rate increases will take effect January 1st for United Illuminating (UI) and Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) customers.

Closing with the words, "Let the debate begin," DeStefano challenges Gov. Rell to tell Connecticut families during the debate next Monday evening what she what will do to lower energy prices and start getting things done.

"While skyrocketing electricity rates squeeze middle class families and send businesses fleeing to other states, Gov. Rell has taken no action to lower electric rates," said Derek Slap, DeStefano campaign spokesperson. "One week from today, with Gov. Rell and John DeStefano standing together on stage, Gov. Rell will need to answer why she failed to make electricity more affordable in Connecticut."

The ad's script is as follows:

DeStefano: I want to debate Governor Rell and give you a clear choice. I have an energy plan that imposes a windfall tax on electric companies and uses the money to lower your monthly bill. In two years, here's what Governor Rell has gotten done on energy prices. (pause)

The fact is, doing nothing isn't good enough. As governor, I'll push hard to get things done.

Let the debate begin.

As governor, DeStefano would impose a windfall profits tax on electric generators - making record profits - and return $300 million to families across the state. As part of his energy plan released in May, DeStefano would also return $40 million to Connecticut's businesses, and invest in alternative forms of energy and conservation.

The new thirty-second ad will begin airing on all major broadcast networks and News 12 on Tuesday morning.