10 Debates

Regarding the post primary debate offer to Sandals and Pennacchio...

Randy Schulz, a spokesman for Sandals, derided Santorum's outreach to all Democrats as "a transparent political stunt ... to trap Casey."

"The political calculus is simple: If Sandals agreed to 10 debates and Casey does not, the Santorum outreach will undoubtedly be used to score political points against Casey," he said.

[Santorum spokeswoman Virginia] Davis defended the offer, noting that Sandals and Pennacchio have gained some traction since last fall.

Calling Santorum's "bluff" might also help Sandals gain publicity. Casey leads Sandals and Pennacchio in public opinion polls of likely voters.

That's true. Sandals and Pennacchio have been struggling with getting earned media, since the media has declared Casey the victory. They should be open to doing a lot to elevate their name. Especially among Democrats.