Another debate challenge, this one from Bennett

Challenging your political opponent to debates is all the rage these days.  First U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did it, calling on his presidential opponent, U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), to join him in town-hall style debates. Picking up the cue, Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta has been challenging U.S. Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-Nanticoke City) to a series of debates

Now it's Democrat Sam Bennett's term. Struggling to gain traction in her race against U.S. Rep. Charles Dent (R-Allentown) in the 15th Congressional District, Bennett on Wednesday asked Dent to join her in a debate about gas prices.

"For four years Charlie Dent has voted with George Bush on energy policies that have rewarded their Big Oil friends and done nothing to lower gas prices. We need an advocate in Congress who will enact policies that will hold Big Oil accountable, invest in renewable fuels, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Bennett said in a statement. "If Charlie Dent is serious about reducing gas prices, he'll meet me to discuss the issue in August."

Dent campaign manager Shawn Millan could not immediately be reached for comment.