Fox News agreed Tuesday to host a debate between Senate candidates Ken Paxton (R) and James Talarico (D) of Texas following the Democrat’s challenge to face his opponent on what he characterized as friendly turf.
“Debates best serve voters and the democratic process when both candidates participate and voters have the opportunity to compare positions on the issues,” a Fox News Media spokesperson told The Washington Post in a statement. “We will move forward with the debate if both candidates commit to appearing.”
Paxton has not yet agreed to the debate, and his campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. His campaign expressed openness to debates earlier this year but has yet to agree to any.
“Ball’s in your court, Ken,” Talarico said in a statement.
The last Senate race in Texas not to have a debate was in 2000.
The two candidates are participating in Q&As hosted by the U.S. Hispanic Business Council this week. Paxton’s event was Monday, and Talarico’s is Wednesday.
Talarico will partake in a candidate town hall on Oct. 14 hosted by CNN and Jubilee Media. Jubilee is known for its “Surrounded” series where guests debate a panel of people with opposing viewpoints.
Paxton declined CNN’s invitation to a similar event.
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The post Fox News agrees to host Texas Senate debate; no word from Paxton yet appeared first on Washington Post.
