LePage To Participate In 5 Debates

Maine Gov. Paul LePage now says he plans to participate in five debates.

The Republican said last week he did not want to be on the same stage as Democratic challenger, U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, unless Michaud denounced TV ads from an outside group that said LePage considered Social Security as a form of welfare.

LePage said in a statement Sunday he has decided to participate in the debates "after much reflection" and to make sure people "get the record straight prior to the election."

Michaud's campaign said in a statement it was time to "stop the silly distractions" and focus on issues.

Independent candidate Eliot Cutler's campaign welcomed LePage's decision and said he is looking forward to discussing "principles and issues."

The first debate is scheduled for Oct. 8 in Portland.