Final South Fork Bishop-Altschuler Debate Slated for Tuesday

For the final debate scheduled on the South Fork between incumbent U.S. Rep. Tim Bishop and second-time challenger Randy Altschuler, the focus will be on business.

The East Hampton Business Alliance and Southampton Business Alliance are hosting the debate on Tuesday in Bridgehampton, with questions submitted by the East End business community. King Kullen and Cook Maran & Associates are sponsoring.

“While other events of this type ask good general questions, this is a unique format geared specifically to topics of importance to East End businesses," said Southampton Business Alliance President Aram Terchunian.

East Hampton Business Alliance President Laurie Wiltshire said, "Our congressional representatives make national decisions that directly affect our local economy. We appreciate that both gentlemen are taking the time for this special opportunity to address our concerns."

The debate between Bishop, D-Southampton, and Altschuler, a St. James Republican, is scheduled one week before Election Day, giving the candidates a chance to make their closing arguments.

The contenders debated in Bridgehampton on Oct. 15 and in Hampton Bays on Sept. 24.

For the upcoming debate, the doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Bridgehampton Community House, and it begins at 7 p.m.

Also on the South Fork, the Concerned Citizens of Montauk will hold a "Meet the Candidates Forum" at the Montauk Fire Department on Sunday. The forum will cover federal and state races, and will be televised. There will also be opportunities for the public to ask questions of the candidates.