Republican Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett responded Friday to a debate request from his opponent -- sort of.

Democrat Glenda Ritz challenged him earlier this week to a debate in each of the state's nine congressional districts, something that has never happened before. At best one debate has occurred in the past.

Bennett sent a letter Friday saying he wants to continue to elevate the discussion surrounding the importance of education. So he requested the Indiana Debate Commission -- a group that has set up governor and other statewide debates -- to step in.

"With only 60 days left in the election, time is running short to meet all of the logistical requirements to host this type of event," Bennett said.

So he accepted. Maybe?

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