As he fights to boost his name recognition in the campaign against Democratic U.S. Rep. James R. Langevin, Republican Mark Zaccaria has offered up a challenge: 20 debates in 20 towns before Election Day in November.

“I look forward to a vigorous race against my opponent and I would like to challenge Mr. Langevin to a minimum of 20 public debates: one in each town in the Second [Congressional] District,” the former North Kingstown Town Council member said in a release.

“It is time for our elected officials to stop avoiding political debates. The voters deserve to be able to hear directly from the candidates in an open forum.”

In a letter to the congressman, Zaccaria said he’s willing to work around Langevin’s busy schedule, and asked that the two begin planning the events immediately.

Langevin’s office yesterday confirmed that it received that letter, but did not commit to the meet-ups.

“We’re looking at our schedule,” spokeswoman Joy Fox said. “There will be debates; I don’t know how many. At this point the congressman is looking forward to discussing the issues with [Zaccaria].”

— Cynthia Needham