Xochitl Torres Small told The Associated Press that she committed to participate in all the debates, but Republican nominee Yvette Herrell hasn’t responded to debate sponsors.
Torres Small campaign manager Brian Sowyrda says it appears Herrell is avoiding any debate.
Herrell senior aide Rob Burgess says Herrell couldn’t attend a scheduled KOAT-TV debate “because she will be meeting with voters.”
Water attorney Torres Small is seeking to capture the open southern New Mexico congressional seat for the Democrats currently held by GOP U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce, who is running for New Mexico governor.
Herrell, a state lawmaker, is running as a strong ally of President Donald Trump.