Erik Almquist, Democratic challenger to Republican State Rep. Mary Whiteford is calling for a series of debates across the 80th District ahead of the November general election.

Whiteford, of South Haven, is seeking her third full two-year term in the State House. She was chosen in a special election in 2015 to succeed expelled Cindy Gamrat and legally has been granted the right to seek a third two-year term.

Whiteford has demonstrated a clear allegiance to President Donald Trump and has been a staunch critic of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s handling of the Coronavirus crisis.

Almquist, of Fennville, said, “The contrast couldn’t be more clear. The hard-working people of Allegan County need a new voice in Lansing. I’m ready to get to work and craft practical solutions to the problems we face here in the 80th District.”

Almquist’s campaign proposes the following locations for five outdoor debates:

• Salem Township

• Laketown Township

• City of Otsego

• City of Allegan

• Heath Township

Michigan’s 80th State House District includes most of Allegan County, excluding the northeast portion that takes in Wayland City and Township and the townships of Dorr and Leighton.

The general election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 3.