Democratic gubernatorial nominee Gina Hinojosa accepted a one-hour debate invitation for Wednesday in Fort Worth, and she sent a memorandum proposing the event move outside the governor’s mansion at 10 a.m. Governor Greg Abbott has not responded to either offer, leaving an open question of whether Texas will hold any statewide general election debate this cycle. On the Senate side, State Representative James Talarico has asked Attorney General Ken Paxton for a debate, and so far, nothing is on the schedule.

Political science professors watching this race call the statewide silence unusual. Debate planning usually takes months, and with early voting starting Monday, organizers say it is already too late to put one together this week. That leaves voters comparing candidates through ads, mailers, and coverage instead of a live, unscripted forum.

Here in Waxahachie, local races are still doing forums and meet-and-greets across Ellis County. Candidates are showing up at the courthouse square, the fairgrounds, and neighborhood events. The contrast with the top of the ticket is hard to miss. What do you think: should Texas candidates be required to debate before voters head to the polls?