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Rob Sand withdraws from Iowa PBS gubernatorial debate after family tragedy

By Kelly Maricle,

17 hours ago

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3IGkf2_1GLePwcI00

DES MOINES, Iowa -- A planned debate between Iowa gubernatorial candidates Rob Sand, a Democrat, and Republican Zach Lahn will not go forward this week due to the death of a family member.

Sand and Lahn were slated to participate in a debate hosted by Iowa PBS on Wednesday night.

Sand's Deputy Campaign Manager, Emma O'Brien, confirmed the withdrawal, saying, "Rob Sand is focused on his family during this difficult time. He has withdrawn from the previously scheduled debate on Wednesday, October 21st. We are in contact with the Lahn campaign on rescheduling, and appreciate their willingness to work with us. We will have more updates soon.”

Meet the candidates running for Iowa Attorney General

Sand's family is dealing with the loss of his brother-in-law, 42-year-old Walter E. Lauridsen, who died last week after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 34 in Lucas County. In a statement provided by Sand's campaign, Lauridsen was lauded for "His commitment to giving back and making our community a better place," while the campaign also acknowledged, "Walter lived with mental health complexities. While this is a difficult and painful time for all of us, we know he is now at peace."

In a statement released Monday, Lahn's campaign expressed support for Sand's decision to withdraw from the debate and said, "We urge all Iowans to join us in continued prayer for Rob and his family at this difficult time. Some things are bigger than politics."

Efforts to reschedule the debate are being made.

Sand and Lahn have already debated twice in the lead-up to the November 3rd general election. Another debate is scheduled for October 27 in Cedar Rapids hosted by KCRG-TV9 and The Gazette.

Iowa News

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