Republican Meg Whitman and Democrat Jerry Brown have agreed to participate in a live broadcast debate at the University of California, Davis, in September. The event is sponsored by Capital Public Radio, KCRA-TV Sacramento, The Sacramento Bee and UC Davis. The debate is scheduled to be held on Sept. 28. It will be the first gubernatorial debate and one of only three planned before the November election.

"UC Davis, with its proximity to Sacramento and its strong focus on public policy, is the ideal choice to host this historic debate," said UC Davis Chancellor Linda Katehi. "We're proud to partner with three of California's leading media organizations to make this event possible. We especially hope that by having the debate on a public university campus, more college students will be inspired to learn what is at stake in November's gubernatorial election."

Cheryl Dell, publisher and president of The Sacramento Bee, added, “We want to thank the candidates for agreeing to participate in this debate. It is an important and difficult time for California voters and I’m proud of your efforts to help educate them. Secondly, thank you to our partners -- a diverse and impressive group -- for working together to make this happen.”

California’s voters have identified jobs and the economy as their two biggest concerns, followed by issues including the state budget deficit, education and healthcare. The debate will give candidates the opportunity to tell Californians how they would address these concerns and lead the state out of the recession.

“KCRA 3 has an ongoing commitment to provide voters of Northern California with the information they need to make informed decisions, especially at this critical time in our state’s history,” said KCRA 3 President and General Manager Elliott Troshinsky. “The decision by Meg Whitman and Jerry Brown to accept our debate offer is another opportunity for us to fulfill that commitment. We appreciate that opportunity. We look forward to a spirited and meaningful exchange that will allow each candidate to express their positions and benefit each voter who watches.”

"Debate is essential in an election. Californians need to hear the candidates talk about their ideas and positions,” said Rick Eytcheson, Capital Public Radio president and general manager. “We're pleased to help present this important discussion about the future of our state."

Details of the debate, including the length and format, will be worked out in the coming weeks.