Judge Debate
The public is invited to attend a debate between Jim McLaughlin and James Babbitt, the two candidates running for the judgeship of Branch 3 of the Barron County Circuit Court. The debate will be held at 12 noon on Monday, March 31 in the Commons at the University of Wisconsin-Barron County in Rice Lake.
Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, with the assistance of Professor Eric Kasper in Political Science and Professor Mary Hoeft in Communication Arts, has organized a debate between James Babbitt, Barron County Assistant District Attorney, and Jim McLaughlin, Senior Staff Attorney and Manager with the Office of the Wisconsin State Public Defender.
Phi Theta Kappans have solicited questions for the debate from concerned citizens throughout Barron County. They have compiled a list of provocative questions that should help voters in the county to decide which candidate is their best choice to serve as judge of Branch 3 of the Barron County Circuit Court.
James Babbitt has been a prosecutor for over 27 years. His legal career has included more than 260 jury trials. He has two children. He and his wife live just outside of Chetek.
Jim McLaughlin has 17 years of experience managing the Spooner Public Defenders’ trial office, handling all of Washburn, Burnett, and Sawyer counties. He has two children. He and his wife live in the City of Rice Lake.
Phi Theta Kappans will conduct this debate, giving each candidate 90 seconds to respond to each question. In this 60 minute debate, audience members will learn enough about each candidate to be able to cast an informed vote on Tuesday, April 1. Following the debate, PTK will provide cookies and coffee.