Final answer:
The correct answer is 'unseemly', as it means not proper or appropriate, similar to 'sordid', and fits the negative context of the sentence.
Option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct word to fill in the blank in the sentence 'The sordid and language from both candidates is offensive and takes the focus away from the issues.' is unseemly.
The word unseemly means not proper or appropriate in the context of the situation. This option best fits the sentence because it conveys a similar meaning to 'sordid' and implies that the language used is inappropriate and offensive.
The other options, 'disreputable', 'lucid', and 'candid', do not match the negative connotation required by the context. 'Disreputable' might seem close, but it typically refers to a person's character rather than language.
'Lucid' means clear and easy to understand, which is not a negative attribute, and 'candid' means straightforward or honest, which is not necessarily offensive and might actually be seen as a positive quality in this context.