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Yesterday, mayoral candidate Eric Garcetti challenged opponent Wendy Greuel to an education debate. Today, her campaign responded.

“Wendy Greuel is not only willing to debate Eric on education, she is ready to debate today,” wrote Greuel spokesperson Shannon Murphy. “Rather than holding a political press conference calling for an education debate, let’s use that time to HAVE an education debate.”

Greuel’s camp suggested that the debate take place today at 2:15 PM at Camino Nuevo, a charter school in Silver Lake where Greuel, conveniently, was already planning on visiting. School board President Monica Garcia who, conveniently, has endorsed Greuel, was invited to moderate, along with former board President Yolie Flores and UTLA President Warren Fletcher. Sounds like a blockbuster!

Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like it’s gonna happen. Garcetti, as Kate Linthicum of the LA Times pointed out, had a press conference scheduled at the time.

“This is another political stunt from Controller Greuel,” said Garcetti spokesman Jeff Millman in an email. “Let’s end the political games and get serious about education. We have been approached by the Urban League and KCRW to have a debate in May on Education, and we have accepted.  We are working out the dates with them.”

Previous posts: Garcetti Calls for Education Debate; Mayor Wants More Education from Greuel & Garcetti; Board Members Split on Mayoral Endorsements; Greuel Speech Includes Strong School Reform Language