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Let The Debate Jockeying Begin: Davis Wants 6; Abbott Sticks To 2

The general election is still six months away, but the candidates for Texas governor are already tussling about debates. Republican Greg Abbott got it started Monday by saying he would accept two debates – one in McAllen and one in Dallas. On Tuesday, Democrat Wendy Davis, speaking in North Texas, said she wants six debates, including one in the Rio Grande Valley.

Credit Bob Daemmrich / Laura Buckman / Texas Tribune
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Texas Tribune
Greg Abbott says he'll participate in two debates, but Wendy Davis wants six.

  “Because it’s a crucial region for the future of our state,” Davis said. “Not only is the population one of the fastest growing, and its small businesses -- some of the most beneficial, but it’s a strong leader in medical and technical innovations.”   

In a statement Monday, Abbott’s campaign said the Dallas debate he’s accepted will be sponsored by WFAA-TV (Channel 8). Davis said she’s considering invitations from KERA and WFAA. And she wants at least two of the debates to focus on specific issues -- the economy and education.

Abbott did not address the issue Tuesday, but a campaign spokesman told KERA that he had rejected Davis’ six-debate proposal and would stick with two debates.

Doualy Xaykaothao is a newscaster and reporter for NPR, based in Culver City. She returned to NPR for this role in 2018, and is responsible for writing, producing, and delivering national newscasts. She also reports on breaking news stories for NPR.