ST. LOUIS, Missouri (First Alert 4) – Republican Senator Josh Hawley and his challenger Lucas Kunce challenged each other to a debate this week about the issues facing Missourians.

Several television and radio networks, including Gray Media, the parent company of First Alert 4, have offered to host the candidates in a forum. Kunce quickly accepted several offers, including Gray’s. Hawley, however, has not.

After Kunce’s nomination as the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, Hawley put forward his own proposal: a debate between Lincoln and Douglas at the Missouri State Fair next week, with no official television broadcast and no appointed neutral moderator.

“If it’s good enough for Lincoln, it’s probably good enough for us,” Hawley told a crowd at a rally on Thursday.

Hawley also mocked Kunce for demanding a more traditional studio format, saying his opponent had turned down the offer.

“I said, ‘Come on, Lucas, let’s get some bales of hay, we’ll take turns and if you agree, I’ll let you go first,'” he said.

Kunce held his own press conference on Thursday morning and said he was open to discussions with various anchors and television networks, including the right-wing broadcaster Fox News.

“I’m here anytime, any place, any issue. I just want to make sure Missourians can answer the tough questions,” he said.

Political consultant Jason Grill said a televised debate could benefit Kunce, who is vying for notoriety in a race against a well-known incumbent.

“We want as many people as possible to be seen. So let’s not just have two guys talking on a street corner without anyone listening,” said Grill.

Hawley also released an attack ad this week criticizing Kunce on environmental issues, which some might consider an unusual move for a conservative candidate in a red state in early August.

Grill said Hawley was probably trying to paint an early picture of Kunce.

“You have to consider your opponent. In a presidential election year, there is always a threat. I think Hawley is smart to get in early in the process and spend money,” he said.

Grill and Hawley both said they would be at the Missouri State Fair next week, but questioned whether their opponent would be there in good faith.

“I don’t know if Hawley will show up because he didn’t agree to it,” Kunce said.

“I will be at the fair with the Missouri Farm Bureau and am ready to debate,” Hawley assured.

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