Now that the candidates are set for November’s 1st Congressional District election, incumbent Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Montross) has extended an offer to his Democratic challenger, Qasim Rashid, to participate in a pair of nonpartisandebates.

Rashid, who defeated Vangie Williams in a June 23 primary to be the Democratic Party standard bearer, has replied that he would like to have a series of six debates held around the district.

“I believe it is important to offer constituents of the First District an opportunity to hear our competing visions for the future presented side-by-side and in our own words as they prepare to cast their ballots in November,” the letter from Wittman to Rashid reads. “It is no secret that this historic 2020 election cycle is expected to be riddled with partisan bickering and misleading attacks that too often mar our political system. It is also my sincere hope that our campaigns will rebuff this trend and conduct ourselves in a positive manner that will refl...