Maine Governor Candidate Accuses Opponents of Delaying Debates

Independent Maine gubernatorial candidate Eliot Cutler is lashing out at Republican Paul LePage and Democrat Mike Michaud, accusing them of delaying debate appearances until after many absentee ballots are already cast.

Cutler accused the candidates and their parties of "cynical and manipulative tactics" to delay and restrict debates this fall.

In 2010, there were more than 30 debates and forums.

As of Monday, there were only four debates in which Michaud, LePage and Cutler all were committed to appear. Cutler said his opponents don't want to debate because "neither one has a plan to pull Maine out of an 11-year economic tailspin."

Mainers can begin filling out applications for absentee ballots starting Monday. The absentee ballots are mailed out from towns between 30 and 45 days before the election.