BRICK,NJ- Rob Canfield, Republican candidate for Governor of New Jersey, responded with righteous indignation to the recent NJ Globe article discussing debate participation among GOP candidates. Canfield emphasized the importance of all declared candidates having the opportunity to be heard by voters, criticizing the current system for favoring political insiders and media-anointed frontrunners.
“It is unacceptable that political power brokers and media outlets continue to dictate which candidates get to participate in debates. This is an open primary, not a coronation,” Canfield said. “New Jersey’s voters deserve to hear from every candidate, not just the ones deemed ‘worthy’ by an out-of-touch establishment or a biased media. The people—not the media and not political elites—decide elections.”
Media Bias Undermines Democracy
Canfield called for sweeping reforms in how media outlets cover elections, highlighting the imbalance created when only a select few candidates are given the platform to address voters.
“This isn’t the media’s primary to decide. By shutting out candidates who don’t fit their narrative or who aren’t backed by big donors, they strip voters of their voice and their right to make informed choices,” Canfield said. “Time and again, history has shown us that the underdog, the candidate who ‘doesn’t have a shot,’ can rise to victory when given a fair chance to connect with the people.”
Remembering Underdogs Who Won
Canfield pointed to Harry S. Truman, who was told he didn’t have a shot at winning the presidency in 1948. Truman’s campaign was written off by experts, pundits, and even some within his own party. Yet, when the people had the chance to hear his message and make their decision, Truman pulled off one of the most famous upsets in American political history.
“Like Truman, many candidates who start with nothing but a vision for change and a commitment to serve are dismissed out of hand,” Canfield said. “The media and political elites were wrong then, and they’re wrong now. Voters are smart enough to make their own decisions if they’re given the opportunity to hear from all candidates. The media’s role is to report, not dictate.”
A Call to Action- Fairness in Debates and Beyond
Canfield called on debate organizers and the media to honor the principles of democracy and fairness.
“Every declared candidate should be on that debate stage,” Canfield said. “Let the voters ask their questions. Let the candidates answer for themselves. If this is truly a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, then give the people the information they need to decide—not just the narrative you want to push.”
Canfield also encouraged New Jerseyans to demand better from the political process and to hold media organizations accountable for their role in shaping public perception.
“Media outlets should strive for balance and fairness, not play kingmakers,” Canfield said. “It’s time to put the power back where it belongs—in the hands of the voters.”
To learn more about Rob Canfield’s vision for a fairer, more accountable New Jersey, visit www.rob4nj.org.
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