Will they debate in the media, even if it means taking the risk of exposing Republican divisions?
This is suggested by Aurélien Pradié, currently secretary general of the party and himself a candidate.
In a letter to his two main adversaries, Éric Ciotti and Bruno Retailleau, the deputy for Lot invites them to "
bring the debate of ideas to life as widely as possible
", by accepting invitations from television channels which "
wish to organize programs special events with the candidates who have obtained their sponsorships
".
Asked about this, the teams of Éric Ciotti and Bruno Retailleau nevertheless affirm that they intend to participate in these televised debates.
No reluctance from candidates
"
For my part, I responded favorably to these invitations
," wrote Aurélien Pradié in his letter.
Believing that "
fleeing the debate is always a weakness
", the candidate adds that "
political courage depends on the courage to defend one's convictions
".
Éric Ciotti's team specifies, however, that the deputy of the Alpes-Maritimes has been and remains "
completely in favor of the televised debate
" between the contenders for the presidency of the party, and even underlines a "
misunderstanding
" as to the open letter by Aurélien Pradié.
Éric Ciotti reacted quickly on Twitter, recalling that he will participate "
with enthusiasm in all the debates organized
", as he has also announced "
for several weeks on the news channels
".
Read also Presidency of the Republicans: in Biarritz, Aurélien Pradié plays his part
Same story with Bruno Retailleau, whose entourage says he will participate in such programs, while admitting that holding a public debate for an internal election is not necessarily "
a great idea
", but that it will be necessary simply make sure to find "
the best format
" to address this partisan deadline, possibly negotiating with the television channels.
