Wilkins challenges Palmer to congressional debate

Gerrick Wilkins, a Republican candidate in the race for Alabama’s 6th Congressional District, is challenging incumbent Gary Palmer to a debate — and putting money on the line.

In a release Tuesday, Wilkins said he will donate $10,000 to an Alabama veterans’ charity of Palmer’s choosing if Palmer will agree to a debate.

“Our district deserves leaders who are brave enough to debate critical issues and compassionate enough to support those who’ve served our country,” Wilkins said in the release.

Wilkins claimed he has been attempting to schedule a debate with Palmer for over a month without response, leading him to raise the stakes.

“Let’s debate the issues that matter to our district and, in doing so, provide much-needed support to our veterans. It’s a win-win situation,” Wilkins said.

He is asking for Palmer to engage in two one-hour debates, one in the northern part of the district and one in the southern region.