Editorial: Tribune debate series puts voters first

No candidate secured more than 50% of the vote in the State House District 12 Special Primary Election on July 15. That means Republicans Cindy Myrex and Clint Hollingsworth will face off in the State House District 12 Special Primary Runoff Election on Aug. 12.

Before that, however, both Republican candidates have been invited to participate in a debate hosted by The Cullman Tribune on Saturday, Aug. 9.

Both candidates were contacted within 24 hours of the July 15 primary via a joint email so they received the same information at the same time. 

I also personally texted Cindy Myrex to extend the invitation and even offered to meet for lunch to ease any potential concerns or discomfort she might have. 

As of this writing, I have not received a response from her since last Wednesday.

We sincerely hope both candidates will attend the runoff debate. After all, how can we count on someone to be strong in Montgomery if they will not answer simple questions during a locally held debate?

As Cullman County prepares for a season of special elections and municipal races, The Cullman Tribune remains committed to providing voters with clear, direct access to the people seeking their votes.

The 2025 Debate Series continues this summer and into the fall with a full slate of forums for candidates in House District 11, House District 12 and local municipal elections. These events are designed to give the public more than slogans — they offer unfiltered answers, direct comparisons and meaningful accountability.

The Tribune works diligently to reach every candidate. But if a candidate declines to respond to emails or calls, there is only so much we can do. The invitation stands. The forum is open. If a candidate does not attend, an empty chair will sit beside those who do.

When one candidate appears without an opponent, that participant will take part in a question-and-answer session.

As we clearly inform all invitees:

“If one candidate agrees to participate but the other candidate does not, then the candidate participating will have more of an open question and answer session, so we implore that both attend.”

These rules were not created for theatrics — they’re in place to foster honesty and civility. Candidates are told up front that this is not a show, but a conversation with the public.

New format: Live at Wallace State

Beginning with the upcoming debates, all Tribune-hosted debates will be held live on stage at Wallace State Community College and open to a select number of audience members. We are working closely with WSCC to provide a professional venue where voters can hear candidates speak directly and answer real questions from the community.

WSCC President Dr. Vicki Karolewics has been gracious enough to open up the Bailey Center auditorium for all debates. 

To give residents a voice, we will poll the audience 30 minutes before the debate and select two audience-submitted questions to be asked live on stage. 

If you plan to attend and wish to submit a question:

• Please write down your question before arriving
• Be sure to include your first and last name

Upon arrival, notify a member of The Tribune crew that you have a question for consideration.

Audience space will be limited, and full details about access and procedures will be announced prior to each debate. To claim a seat, email news@cullmantribune.com as it is first come, first served.

Official debate rules

1. No electronic devices permitted
2. Questions alternate so no candidate always answers first or last
3. Opening statement: 60 seconds, may be prepared
4. Closing statement: 90 seconds, must be spoken without notes
5. One rebuttal per question: 45 seconds
6. Facts only – no accusations without proof
7. Voters deserve substance over slogans – talking points won’t be enough

These debates are more than a stage. They are a public service. We aren’t looking for applause lines — we’re looking for clarity, commitment and leadership.

The Tribune will continue to provide these opportunities regardless of who shows up. And we encourage voters to pay attention to not just what is said — but who is willing to say it in public, on the record, when it matters most. Forums are not the same as a debate.

Let the conversations continue. Let the people be heard.