They're vying to represent the largest congressional district in Kansas. Monday night, candidates for District One discussed their views during the Eyewitness News candidate forum.
One of the candidates, Republican Tim Huelskamp declined our invitation to participate.
Democratic candidate Alan Jilka and Libertarian Jack Warner did attend. They answered questions from our viewers on how to stop the outsourcing of jobs, health care reform, and how to maintain the population of western Kansas, a large portion of the big First District.
"In terms of jobs, we should focus on small business incentives for small agriculture related business," said Jilka.
At times, the candidate's views couldn't have been more different.
"Climate change is real," said Jilka, when asked how the government should respond to environmental issues.
"Man-made climate change is bogus," argued Warner.
Despite their differences, the two never once attacked each other. Jilka saved his criticism for Huelskamp.
"With so many issues at stake, what could be more important than being here to express them?," Jilka asked of Huelskamp's decision.
Huelskamp's campaign disagreed with the format of the forum chosen by KWCH, saying he would only participate in forums that featured "viable" candidates. He opposed having the Libertarian candidate involved. Jilka dedicated his entire closing statement to questioning his opponent's decision.
"I would suggest he doesn't want people to know his views on the issues," Jilka challenged.
Despite the empty podium, all three names will be on the ballot in November.
Tim Huelskamp's campaign manager, David Ray, issued the following statement in regards to the candidate's absence:
"I wanted to write you a quick email to let you know that after attempting to come to an agreement on a workable format for the debate, we respectfully decline your invitation to debate on KWCH. Our campaign has put together a thorough debate schedule, including a debate last week at Emporia State University and an upcoming debate on October 21st in Salina. Thank you for your invitation."
