Kate Lisa is reporting for Johnson Newspaper Corp. Democrat Michelle Hinchey of Saugerties, and Republican Richard Amedure of Rensselaerville, candidates for the 46th state Senate District seat have announced they are scheduling a trio of public discussions to take place before the November general election. Incumbent Republican George Amedore is not seeking re-election. Hinchey challenged Amedure in a Sept. 1 press release to commit to three debates. Hinchey said, “I hope that my opponent takes this as seriously as I do, and will commit to three debates in the coming months so that the entire district is covered. The voters deserve more than Facebook attack ads and glossy mailers; they deserve to hear directly from us on the many important issues to them and their families.” Amedure said he is ready and willing to debate Hinchey. “I look forward to debating the issues of the 46th district 100 percent,” he said. Candidates have struggled to campaign amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and most have canceled or limited in-person events, making it more difficult for voters to speak with and meet candidates before Election Day. Hinchey agreed that she and Amedure could debate and remain safely distanced. Virtual events also remain a possibility. Amedure says he willing to discuss a wide variety of issues. “I’m pretty broad-minded,” he said, adding he hopes to highlight plans to address the state’s bail reform, lowering taxes, increasing opportunities for upstate youth and the state’s continuing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hinchey plans to address her proposal for a sustained pandemic response and economic recovery, including increased regional job development and protecting the area’s natural resources. The expansion of high-speed broadband also remains a critical issue throughout the region, Hinchey said. The campaigns will work with local organizations or news publications to help plan the debates. Hinchey’s campaign has talked with the League of Women Voters, and suggested a Capital Region forum in partnership with the Times Union. Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.