To debate or not debate

It’s a bit mind-blowing to think that Gov. Rick Perry might not debate his opponent for the governor’s office, Bill White, during this campaign.

But I’m hearing such nonsense downstate.

Perry’s aides are being somewhat cagey about whether the Republican governor will appear with his Democratic challenger before the Nov. 2 election. It’s causing some folks to wonder if Perry is looking for a reason not to debate White.

I cannot believe that.

The governor acquitted himself quite nicely while debating a formidable primary opponent, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, who he trounced in the GOP primary in March. As for White, he is emerging as a competitive Democrat in this Republican-heavy state. The latest Rasmussen poll has Perry up by 8 points, 48-40 percent. But this is still just June. The election is a long way off — and much can change in either direction between now and November.

One of the game-changers might be a debate, or a series of debates. Perry can put White with a sparkling televised performance. Then again, White could flatten Perry just as easily.

Hmmm. Maybe it’s the uncertainty that’s giving the governor some pause, if that’s indeed the case.

The two men need to face each other on statewide TV, and not just a single time, either.

A series of join appearances would serve Texas voters well.

Come on, governor. Sign on.