Candidates plan to hit videotape

By Maureen Boyle
Enterprise staff writer

BROCKTON — In the coming days, James Harrington and Jass Stewart will be watching a bit more television.

The two mayoral candidates plan to review the video of the debates from the preliminary election campaign to see where they did well and where they need to improve.

“I want to see what answers I feel I didn't answer strongly enough,” said Harrington, the incumbent. “When you live through it, it's not as much fun to watch.”

Stewart said he and members of his team are viewing the tapes individually and together for much the same reasons.

“There are always opportunities that you missed that you wished you had taken advantage of,” Stewart said.

It's all part of the prepping for the rapid-fire series of debates in the city between the two candidates.

The first debate, sponsored by the Brockton Area Multi-Services Inc., will be held Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Massasoit Community College conference center.

The second debate, sponsored by the city Republican Committee, is set for Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at the Country Inn on Westgate Drive.

Round three, sponsored by Brockton Interfaith Council, will be held Oct. 23 at 7 p.m.. at United Methodist Church on Pearl Street.

The final debate, sponsored by The Enterprise, is set for Oct. 30 at the Massasoit Community College conference center.

“We think this is a public service that needs to be done,” said Charles Fiske, BAMSI vice president of public and government relations. “It is a chance for the voters to see the candidates.”

Richard Cronin, a spokesman for the college, said Massasoit was pleased to host two of the debates.

“Massasoit is an integral part of the community, and part of our educational mission is to keep people informed about the issues from a civic standpoint,” Cronin said.

The upcoming debates for the general election may be a bit easier for the candidates now that the field is narrowed to two.

“You have more opportunity to start illuminating the differences,” Stewart said. “The point of any debate is to create distinction.”

Harrington said the two-man field allows the candidates to present their views clearly.

“It gives us a chance to focus on our message,” Harrington said.

Maureen Boyle can be reached at mboyle@enterprisenews.com.