Branstad agrees to three debates with Culver

Former Gov. Terry Branstad has agreed to three media-sponsored general election debates with Gov. Chet Culver in Cedar Rapids, Sioux City and Johnston.

The debates will “showcase the real choice that exists in this election,” said Branstad 2010 campaign manager Jeff Boeyink. “Gov. Branstad looks forward to sharing his positive vision for job creation, balancing Iowa's state budget and restoring Iowa's leadership position in education. We are excited to participate in these three debates.”

Culver campaign spokeswoman Ali Glisson said Branstad agreeing to three debates “is a good start.” The Culver campaign wants to make sure the debates are open to the media and public.

She agreed the debates will help make clear the choice between Branstad and Culver, a Democrat seeking re-election.

“Do we want to continue moving forward with the Culver-Judge Administration? Or, do we want to turn back with Terry Branstad and repeal programs like preschool and the Iowa Power Fund and cut programs like Hawk-I,” she asked.

The debates Branstad accepted are:

The campaigns are discussing one as-yet-determined debate between the lieutenant governor candidates.

• Lee Enterprises/KCAU-TV/WQAD-TV, Sioux City, time and date to be determined.
• The Cedar Rapids Gazette/KCRG-TV 9, at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, 7 p.m. Oct. 7.
• Des Moines Register/Iowa Public Television, Johnston, noon, Oct. 21.