Somerville, MA - U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren announced today that she has accepted an invitation to debate in New Bedford. This debate, coming on the heels of her acceptance of a Worcester debate, reconfirms her commitment to regional equity in debate sites to ensure that local issues are addressed by both candidates.

"The people of Massachusetts share common concerns about the economy, education and keeping our commitments to seniors. But there are also local issues that weigh heavily on residents where the federal government has a role, such as South Coast Rail," said Mindy Myers, Campaign Manager for Elizabeth Warren for Massachusetts. "Elizabeth believes that voters should hear from both candidates on issues close to home in forums close to home. Scott Brown should not turn his back on these voters."

While Elizabeth has now accepted seven televised debates, Brown has agreed only to four. He rejected an invitation from UMass-Boston and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate, as well as a Worcester debate hosted by the Telegram & Gazette, a consortium of local colleges, and the Worcester Chamber of Commerce.

The New Bedford debate would be hosted by the SouthCoast Alliance, a coalition of business, civic, media and community service organizations.

"It's a disservice to voters to refuse to debate in different parts of the Commonwealth. Residents of Central Massachusetts and the South Coast should be able to directly hear from both candidates. Scott Brown ought to reconsider his stance and accept debates in Worcester and New Bedford," said Myers.