Senate candidate Franken challenges Sen. Grassley to two debates in October

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) - Iowa U.S. Senate candidate Michael Franken is challenging incumbent Republican Senator Chuck Grassley to a series of debates before November’s election.

Retired Admiral Michael Franken and his team said they have agreed to two debates planned for October. However, Sen. Grassley said they’re still negotiating over participation in the debates, but that Grassley does plan on debating his opponent as he has in all prior campaigns.

Franken said the proposed debates would take place on October 4 and October 6, and both would be broadcast statewide. Franken won the June primary, defeating former Representative Abby Finkenauer.

Grassley is running for his 8th term.

Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story said Grassley had already agreed to the debates. However, Grassley’s team said he has not yet agreed, calling Franken’s statement about the debates “premature” and “misleading.”

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