Florida's 2014 gubernatorial election is still more than a year away. The Democratic candidate is still unknown. But two groups are already making plans to bring together the Republican and Democratic nominees in a statewide televised debate in mid-October 2014.
Leadership Florida and the Florida Press Association, which have co- hosted debates in the past, announced the plans Tuesday.
Leadership Florida President Wendy Abberger said the debate is an opportunity for voters to learn about the candidates and where they stand on the most pressing problems facing Florida.
"The best way to level the playing is to subject the candidates to fair and informed questioning by journalists and give the voters unfiltered access to their answers", Abberger said.
The groups wanted to make the announcement early, as other potential sponsors - such as television stations or universities - also might look at hosting debates.
The debate, which could be held at a college or university, likely will be limited to the Republican and Democratic candidates. To qualify, candidates will have to receive at least 15% support in a poll conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research.