Nan Rich, Charlie Crist Headed for a July Debate?

All of a sudden Democratic gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist has the ideal occasion and opportunity to debate his primary opponent, Nan Rich. Will he do it?

Rich said she accepted an invitation from the Florida Society of News Editors and the Florida Press Association to appear at a July 10 candidate forum co-hosted by the two organizations.

Said former state Sen. Rich, Florida voters deserve to hear directly from the candidates, at the same time on the same stage, Rich said. Im happy to present my record, my core principles, and my vision for the future. I hope Charlie Crist is as well.

The event is the most hope Rich received yet that the former Republican might actually debate her on the issues. Crist has explicitly told reporters he has no interest in a debate with Rich, down in the polls and in fundraising, even though she's been in the race for the last two years.

The Florida Society of News Editors has yet to decide on the format for the July event but have suggested the candidates would appear on stage together and take questions from a panel of journalists. In agreeing to participate, Rich also agreed to the format.

Open debate is vital to democracy, and Democratic voters are entitled to hear a vigorous exchange of ideas in the primary, Rich said. These two credible and independent organizations are providing a venue for that exchange and I am very much looking forward to participating.

In addition to accepting the debate invitation from the press associations, Rich repeated her call for a series of primary debates around the state.