Democratic gubernatorial candidate, A.J. Balukoff released his official debate schedule. “I look forward to these debates with Gov. Otter and the opportunity to lay out my vision for a better Idaho. While he may try to distract the debates away from his eight year record, I intend to focus on the issues critical to moving our state forward: better schools, creating good-paying jobs, and restoring trust and accountability to state government,” said Balukoff. Balukoff will participate in the following debates:

• Twin Falls Times News Debate, September 24, 7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m., Canyon Ridge High School, Twin Falls
• Coeur Group Debate, October 3, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m., Coeur d’Alene Public Library, Coeur d’Alene
• Idaho Falls City Club Debate, October 9, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m., Idaho State University, Idaho Falls
• KTVB Debate, October 14, 8:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m., Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa
• Idaho Debates, October 30, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Idaho Public Television Studio, Boise

Question: This race must be tighter than people think, for Gov. Otter to agree to five debates. Thoughts?