Bachmann lags Clark and Anderson in commiting to debates

On Friday, I had a confusing conversation with GOP U.S. House Rep. Michele Bachmann's spokesman, Sergio Gor, over their camp's debate plans.

Gor said they had confirmed with a few venues, but it's still not clear which ones.

Meanwhile, Bachmann's opponents, DFLer Tarryl Clark and Independence Party candidate Bob Anderson, are committing to debates.

Clark has released the debates she'll participate in.

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October 12th: Debate hosted by the Stillwater Gazette, Stillwater

October 15th: Debate hosted by North Metro Television, Blaine

October 18th: Debate hosted by the Monticello Chamber of Commerce, Monticello

October 26th: Debate hosted by the Minnesota News Network, St. Cloud

October 31st: At Issue, KSTP Studios

Another debate, to be hosted by the St. Cloud Rotary and Chamber of Commerce, is still being negotiated, and other debates may also be added.

"Some of the forums have indicated that they will not hold their debate unless Bachmann participates," said Clark's spokeswoman Carrie Lucking. "However, we will participate in forums regardless of Bachmann's participation."

Over the weekend, Bob Anderson asked his opponents to list their debate schedules. "Refusing to debate is a disservice to the people of Minnesota and contradicts the principles of a free and open democracy," he said in a press release.

I renewed a request to Bachmann's camp to clarify their debate plans but haven't heard back.