Dewhurst and Cruz Agree to Two Televised Debates

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and former Texas Solicitor General Ted Cruz have so far agreed to two televised debates before the July 31 primary runoff in the Republican U.S. Senate race.

Both candidates confirmed Monday that they will participate in debates hosted by ABC affiliate WFAA and PBS affiliate KERA, both based in Dallas. The Texas Tribune is a partner in the KERA debate. Other partners include Hearst Newspapers and Univision.

Last week, Cruz challenged Dewhurst to participate in five debates before the runoff.

Dewhurst spokesman Matt Hirsch said other debates may be in the works. "Any statewide televised debates, he's up for them," Hirsch said. 

The KERA debate is scheduled for 8 p.m. on June 22, said KERA Managing Editor Shelley Kofler. 

Details of the WFAA debate were not immediately available.

In a recent segment on Univision, a reporter suggested the two candidates debate in Spanish. Dewhurst agreed while Cruz, who said who grew up speaking a mix of English and Spanish, said he would prefer to debate in English.