by George P. Hassett

The Somerville News will host a debate Oct. 13 for the seat to the 27th Middlesex District of the state legislature from 7 to 8 p.m. in The Independent restaurant at 75 Union Square.

“On Oct. 13, I will emphasize my record of standing up for the families of Somerville while trying to find out what Baird has ever done for this community,” said State Rep. Patricia D. Jehlen, D-Somerville.

Jehlen, the incumbent and her Republican challenger, Dane Baird, will discuss the issues they feel are most important to the people of Somerville.

The debate is expected to be a lively affair with the two politicos already engaging in a war of words.

“In the debate, I am going to point out Ms. Jehlen’s many shortcomings, including her negligence of public safety in the city,” said Baird.

“She will not support the Anti-Gang Ordinance, an ordinance which empowers our police force to take gang members off our streets. Apparently, Ms. Jehlen believes that when our young women are raped it’s OK,” he said.

In addition, each candidate plans to discuss the vital issue of public transportation in the city.

“One of my main points will be to emphasize my work in bringing a Green Line T stop to Somerville. Public transportation is one of the key issues facing this city,” said Jehlen.
Baird said he plans to attack Jehlen’s track record and characterize her work on the issue as ineffective.

“With 14 years at the State House, the incumbent should be able to use personal diplomacy and relationships to acquire and provide funding for necessary Green Line T extensions from Lechmere to both Union and Ball Squares,” he said.

“In late July, she again failed to gain the necessary $259 million appropriation and Somerville will once again have their transportation needs unmet,” said Baird.

The moderator of the event will be Somerville funnyman and host of the Somerville News Comedy Nights at Toast – Baratunde.

“This is a great fit for me. It combines my two loves – politics and comedy. The people of Somerville are going to be able to see politics in action,” he said.

Ken Kelly, the owner of the Independent, said his establishment is the perfect setting for such a contentious political affair.

“Since we opened, the Independent has been the number one spot in Somerville for various political players to come and debate the issues of the day. So, it is only fitting that such a heated race should find its home at the Independent,” he said.