Former New York Gov. George Pataki (R) has been gaining little traction since announcing his candidacy for the Republican nomination.  So in the hopes of attracting some attention, Pataki has challenged Trump to debate immigration "mano a mano."

During a campaign stop in New Hampshire Monday, Pataki called on Trump to rise above the insults and offer a real plan, The Hill reported.

"Rhetoric which demonizes, demeans and casts blame on immigrants is not new, but it’s ugly and has no place in our discourse," Pataki said in a prepared statement.

Pataki has stated that he believes in a secure border, the rule of law, and for Americans to recognize the value of Mexican immigrants.

"When you enter the political arena, you have to be the leader for everyone, and dividing to gain some sort of benefit is not right," Pataki said in an interview with CNN.

While Trump has not responded to Pataki's call for debate, the billionaire has doubled down on his remarks about Mexican immigration.

"I have great respect for Mexico and love their people and their peoples’ great spirit," said Trump on Monday, before slamming the Mexican government over the issues of trade and drug cartels.