Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro is challenging Democratic congressional candidate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to a debate.
“I would love to have a real conversation with you about the issues,” Shapiro said in a message directed at Ocasio-Cortez on the Daily Wire’s “Ben Shapiro Show” on Wednesday.
Hey, @Ocasio2018, what do you say? pic.twitter.com/lKDtmMc8Us
— Ben Shapiro (@benshapiro) August 8, 2018
[Opinion: It’s not just centrists: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez dodges on Nancy Pelosi]
Shapiro said he would contribute $10,000 to Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign if she accepted his invitation for an hourlong debate during an upcoming Sunday special of his show. He also said he would be willing to put the money towards charity.
“You noted that you think Republicans are afraid to debate you, or talk to you, or discuss the issues with you,” Shapiro continued. “Not only am I eager to discuss the issues with you, I’m willing to offer $10,000 to your campaign today for you to come on our Sunday special.”
Shapiro said he wants to make this conversation happen for the sake of making America a “more civil and interesting place.”
Ocasio-Cortez, a newcomer to politics, beat out 10-term incumbent Rep. Joe Crowley, D-N.Y., in the New York primary earlier this summer.
Democratic National Committee Chairman Tom Perez said last month that Ocasio-Cortez and politicians like her are the future of the Democratic Party.
As of Thursday morning, Ocasio-Cortez has not responded to Shapiro’s proposal, and her campaign did not immediately respond for request for comment regarding the invitation.
