Rivals in City Attorney’s Race to Hold Debate

Opening the official campaign for what could be the hottest race on the April 8 municipal ballot, Los Angeles City Atty. James K. Hahn will face Encino lawyer-developer Ted Stein in the first--and possibly only--debate between the candidates this afternoon at the Sheraton Grande Hotel.

Hosted by the Central City Assn., a downtown group of business leaders, the luncheon debate is expected to draw about 100 people. Although Stein several months ago challenged Hahn to debate him weekly from January until the election, today’s event is the only head-to-head meeting scheduled so far.

“We hope we’re going to get Jimmy to talk about the issues . . . what the city attorney’s office should be doing, what it has been doing, what it hasn’t been doing,” said Stein campaign consultant Harvey Englander.

Matt Middlebrook, who is running Hahn’s campaign, said the incumbent relishes the chance to showcase his achievements.

Members of the Central City Assn. can attend the luncheon for $35, while nonmembers can attend for $45. Arrangements can be made for people who would like to attend only the debate, which is scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m..

Information: (213) 624-1213.