DeKALB | Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich and Republican gubernatorial candidate Judy Baar Topinka may not end up debating face-to-face before the election.

Last Friday, Blagojevich offered debate proposals to Topinka and said she had until Monday to deliver a response. Topinka did not reply.

“We offered the treasurer numerous chances to engage in debates across the state to address issues important to the working families of Illinois,” said Blagojevich campaign spokeswoman Sheila Nix. “Instead, Topinka and her campaign stalled, delayed and pointed fingers.”

Topinka’s side told a different story.

“An ultimatum is not a negotiation, and we’re disappointed with Rod Blagojevich’s shrill and disingenuous approach to this process,” said Topinka spokesman John McGovern in a statement. “However, we have proposed a sensible compromise that allows Blagojevich to participate in at least one of his preferred debates, while allowing Topinka to try and rescue at least one of the many other outstanding debate invitations.”

Topinka agreed to debate on a day Blagojevich chose if he would agree to debate on one of her chosen days, Oct. 30 or 31.

“Challengers usually want to debate and incumbents usually resist debating,” said Brendon Swedlow, associate professor of political science.

A debate may be more beneficial to Topinka, as she could make her platform better known.

“Challengers gain because incumbents usually only agree to debate credible challengers, and the challenger gains credibility, visibility and stature just by participating in the debate with an incumbent,” Swedlow said.

Caitlin Mullen is a City Reporter for the Northern Star.