GOP Senate candidates differ on debate plans

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Former wrestling executive Linda McMahon says she wants three Republican debates for Connecticut's latest Senate race. But her main contender, former U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays says he wants 10.

McMahon, the GOP's Senate candidate in 2010, has suggested holding debates in Norwich, Hartford and Stamford, in April, June and July respectively.

Shays has called for two debates in each of the five congressional districts. He wants half held before the Republican State Convention on May 18 and the other half before the Aug. 14 state primary, which he has vowed to participate in even if he loses the party's endorsement.

Neither candidate said who they think should participate. There are several other GOP candidates, including Hartford attorney Brian K. Hill, Southbury attorney Kie Westby and Fairfield attorney Peter Lumaj.