Sen. John Kerry’s long-awaited agreement to debate democratic challenger Edward O’Reilly might as well have never happened. Kerry’s reluctance to debate and irreverent attitude towards his challenger are not only unsporting, but disrespectful to both his voters and his reputation.

As the 24-year incumbent, Kerry is afforded a lot of luxuries when it comes to running a campaign. Aside from a colossal amount of experience that is decidedly absent from O’Reilly’s resume, Kerry is also able to conduct more widespread voter appeals and using his massive wealth. It will take more than a longshot for Ed O’Reilly to overcome those odds.

But that doesn’t mean O’Reilly’s points should go unanswered. Saturday’s 20-minute debate was more of a tiff than a bona fide political fight. Not only was the short event taped without a live audience, but it was aired at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday. All this after relentless grinding away by O’Reilly and a decisive editorial by The Boston Globe. And still, by agreeing to the event and negotiating its terms, Kerry made it clear that debating his opponent publicly is far from his list of priorities.

With such a lead, Kerry doesn’t need to demean his own standing by using such tactics against O’Reilly. By avoiding debate and his aloof attitude during the actual event, he stands to aggravate the thousands of O’Reilly supporters, as well as cast a shadow on what could become a friendly Democratic sparring match.

Debate or not, the October primary won’t see an upset for Massachusetts democrats. While all signs point to a Kerry victory, if he continues to snub the O’Reilly campaign he may face consequences in the future. After all, what does Kerry have to lose in openly and fairly answering to his first in-party challenger? Ed O’Reilly has more than just a point to make, and it’s just as valid on a soapbox as it is on a debate floor.

Kerry should not be afraid of fairly, enthusiastically and publicly squaring off with his challenger.