Most Texas Republicans decline to debate Democratic opponents in statewide races

Who's involved

• Ken PaxtonRepublican nominee for U.S. Senate; Attorney General
• James TalaricoDemocratic nominee for U.S. Senate
• Greg AbbottGovernor; Republican gubernatorial nominee
• Gina HinojosaDemocratic gubernatorial nominee
• Vikki GoodwinState Rep.; Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor
• Dan PatrickLt. Gov.; Republican nominee for lieutenant governor
• Nathan JohnsonState Sen.; Democratic nominee for attorney general
• Mayes MiddletonState Sen.; Republican nominee for attorney general
• Jon RosenthalDemocratic nominee for railroad commissioner
• Bo FrenchRepublican nominee for railroad commissioner
• John AlfordRice University political science professor

The facts

• Paxton's spokesperson said in July that Paxton intended to debate Talarico.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• With two weeks until early voting, Paxton has not accepted any debate invitations.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• This could be the first Texas Senate race without a debate in a quarter century.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Talarico accepted at least four debate invitations from CNN and local TV stations.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Talarico challenged Paxton to a Fox News forum moderated by Brett Baier; Fox later agreed to host.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Abbott debated Democratic opponents in each of his three previous gubernatorial races.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Rosenthal announced in late September he and French agreed to an Oct. 22 railroad commissioner debate.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• French has not publicly confirmed the railroad commissioner debate agreement.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources

Who said what

These are statements and claims made by the people involved. They are reported, not verified.

• Paxton's campaign Has not responded to requests for comment on debate intentions.^{1 2 3}
• John Alford Underdog candidates want to debate because they have little to lose.^{1 2 3}