Will Perez Vs. Sanchez Debate Materialize?

Who’s In, Who’s Out in Proposed Perez Vs. Sanchez Debate?

LA QUINTA — In conversations with Steve Sanchez, he would sometimes mention a Perez Vs. Sanchez Debate. It was never clear if the was such an event scheduled, if he was challenging Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor V, Manuel Perez to a debate or something else.

Until now.

In a statement to Uken Report, Sanchez, who has said he reached out to a couple chamber of commerce organizations, said, “I welcome the opportunity to participate in a debate or candidate forum, either format works for me. Voters deserve the chance to hear directly from the candidates, compare ideas, and understand how each of us would lead Riverside County.

“This race is about the future of our communities, from public safety and infrastructure to accountability and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars; those conversations should happen openly and transparently.

“I’m not focused on theatrics or political games. I’m focused on solutions, and I’m always willing to have that conversation in front of the public.

“If a debate or forum is organized in a fair and professional setting, I will be there.”

Uken Report reached out to both the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce and the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce to see if either is planning a debate. Neither responded.

As for Perez, Derek Humphrey, a spokesperson for the Perez campaign, told Uken Report that, “We’re disappointed that Steve Sanchez’s campaign has largely focused on attacking Supervisor Perez and spreading baseless rumors. We think candidates for public office should focus on their own records and articulate their vision for the county. We have not seen that from Steve, and we’re not interested in scheduling a debate with him.”

Humphrey would not elaborate on to what attacks he was referring or rumors.

Sanchez acknowledged discussing factual issues that are part of the public domain such as Perez terminating his longtime chief of staff after he pleaded guilty a felony.

Perez is seeking a third term in office. He ran unopposed in 2022. Sanchez is currently serving on the La Quinta City Council.