PEORIA, Ill. – A planned debate between the two candidates for Peoria mayor will not happen.
Peoria public television station WTVP announced Tuesday the March 19th debate between incumbent Rita Ali and challenger John Kelly has been canceled.
WTVP says the debate was canceled because Kelly backed out, after citing an unspecific conflict.
Kelly had reportedly confirmed his intentions to participate with the League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria on Saturday, but followed up on Monday to say he was not participating.
The station says both agreed to take part in December, and both participated in a forum on January 23rd ahead of the February primary.
The consolidated elections are April 1st.
