Deeds, McDonnell agree to debate

RICHMOND — State Sen. Creigh Deeds and former Attorney General Bob McDonnell have agreed to their first scheduled debate in this year’s governor’s race.

The Virginia Bar Association announced Friday that the candidates had accepted invitations to debate at the association’s summer meeting on July 25.

The group traditionally holds an early debate in statewide political races.

The debate will be conducted before association members and guests attending the meeting but it will be open to the public at no charge.

The association of lawyers and judges does not endorse, support or oppose political candidates.

The debate will be moderated by Dean Rodney Smolla of Washington & Lee School of Law.

Other details have not been finalized.