AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - The state's major daily newspapers and a public television station are inviting both gubernatorial candidates to a debate.
The news organizations say they'll host the event Oct. 19 in Austin even if only one candidate shows up.
The Austin American-Statesman reported that invitation letters were being delivered to Democrat Bill White and Republican Gov. Rick Perry on Friday.
White has been pressing for a debate, but Perry has said he won't debate until White releases more income tax returns.
The Austin American-Statesman, The Dallas Morning News, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News and working with station KLRU in Austin to host the debate.
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