Tottenville Republican challenges public advocate foe to debates

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Pointing to the low turnout in Tuesday's runoff, GOP public advocate candidate Alex Zablocki yesterday challenged Democratic opponent Bill de Blasio to debate him in every borough.

"We need to engage people from across the five boroughs, and the best way to do that is through healthy, spirited debates and forums," said Zablocki. "What voters said on Tuesday was that they weren't too interested in what the two Democratic candidates for public advocate had to say."

Zablocki, the first Staten Islander to run citywide on a major party line since the late GOP state Sen. John Marchi's mayoral runs, is seeking sponsors for the debates.

"We look forward to having debates to discuss the issues facing New Yorkers today and the future of our city," said Mollie Meikle of de Blasio's campaign. "We will be working with the Zablocki campaign to figure out the details."

Zablocki also applauded de Blasio's announcement yesterday that he will not use any public matching funds for the general election, including nearly $30,000 he received yesterday.

De Blasio said that in hard economic times, "I believe it would be inappropriate for my campaign to take taxpayer dollars that we don't need."

De Blasio has raised almost $1.7 million and has received $2.2 million in public funds.

"This is good news for the taxpayers of New York City and I applaud Mr. de Blasio for making the right decision," said Zablocki, who has raised $15,000.

Tom Wrobleski may be reached at wrobleski@siadvance.com. Read his polit.bureau blog at http://www.silive.com/newslogs/politics/.