Mayor Jeff Graham wants the candidates and the media to "cut the crap" over debates in the north country.

The titular head of Watertown — and supporter of congressional candidate Matt Doheny in his effort to beat Kellie Greene on June 26 and Rep. Bill Owens on Nov. 6 — has weighed in twice on the debate over the debate in the GOP primary.

Ms. Greene challenged Mr. Doheny to a debate. Mr. Doheny, who is the favorite in the race, accepted, and sent out a news release Friday afternoon saying that the debate should occur in the town of Fine, population 1,500, in southeastern St. Lawrence County.

The Greene campaign said that while they'd be fine going to Fine, they want more debates.

Mr. Graham appears to be siding with the Greene campaign.

"Come on guys, let's make it look at least a little legit....Can't those overpriced colleges in St. Lawrence County sponsor something John Friot can find his way to?" Mr. Graham wrote last week.

In a post this morning, public television was the target of Mr. Graham's ire.

"You know the easiest way to resolve this debate nonsense is for the MSM to step up....The local Public TV station has all the facilities and people. The commercial stations could help too....Put a 90 minute debate on and make the tape available via Time Warner and the Internet as well," Mr. Graham said. "Everyone who is interested could see it...Those who don't care can go camping in Wanakena."

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