The date of the debate hasn’t been set, but both campaigns confirmed on Friday that they have accepted the news show’s invitation. The argument now is over whether the debate will count as one of the three statewide, televised debates in which the candidates have already agreed to participate before Nov. 4.
“The Udall campaign has accepted with Meet the Press and we’re pleased to have this be one of our three statewide televised debates,” Udall campaign spokeswoman Marissa Padilla said.
“Meet the Press is the standard bearer for Sunday morning political programming and I know I speak for Steve when I say that we are honored by the invitation,” Pearce campaign manager John Billingsley said in agreeing to the debate. “… The Meet the Press debate should be an additional debate beyond the three we have agreed to.”
The debate is one of several in a series Meet the Press plans as it features hot Senate contests.
“We appreciate that Meet the Press also recognizes the importance this race has for our state and the country and we look forward to this historic opportunity,” Billingsley said.