Debate Between Rep. Jim Hagedorn, Challenger Dan Feehan Canceled

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Minnesota lawmaker who was on Air Force One with the President last week was supposed to take part in a debate Tuesday night, but that debate has now been canceled.

Rep. Jim Hagedorn said he tested negative again on Monday and is back to campaigning.

Democrat Dan Feehan is his challenger for southern Minnesota's first congressional district.

WCCO Radio's Blois Olson says they were unable to find accommodations for production and COVID-19 safety concerns that both campaigns could agree to, so it was canceled.

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"After Congressman Hagedorn's exposure to COVID-19, we were disappointed that he was unwilling to follow CDC and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines and debate us tonight in a virtual format. Dan was looking forward to sharing his plan to protect southern Minnesotans with pre-existing conditions and make healthcare affordable. While we are disappointed about the outcome, we are incredibly thankful for KAAL's efforts to salvage tonight's debate and their commitment to public health and the safety of all those involved," a representative from Feehan's campaign said.

Hagedorn's campaign released the following statement to WCCO-TV:

"It's unfortunate that Dan was unable to take the time yesterday to attend a virtual debate held by the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce. I have so far participated in two (2) debates proposed by the Feehan Campaign, but have gotten no participation in return in regard to my own debate proposals. The people of southern Minnesota deserve every opportunity to hear from their Congressional candidates, so I will continue to be reliable and accessible in order to earn their support.

Today, Feehan chose to cancel the previously scheduled live KAAL-TV debate, another debate I had proposed. It's abundantly clear that Feehan is avoiding debating me and facing questions on his leftwing positions, the hundreds of thousands of dollars paid to him to run for Congress, and his failing campaign. The people of southern Minnesota deserve to know: why is Feehan hiding?"