Rehberg says he won't attend Whitefish debate with Tester

U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg’s campaign announced last week that the congressman won’t be attending a debate scheduled with U.S. Sen. Jon Tester this weekend in Whitefish.

Rehberg, a Republican, is challenging Democrat Tester in his bid to keep his seat in the Senate.

Rehberg’s campaign claims it was never formally invited to the debate and the hosts never confirmed the congressman’s attendance.

The Montana Broadcasters Association, which is sponsoring the debate, disputes the claim, but says the debate will go on. Tester is still scheduled to attend.

Libertarian candidate Dan Cox of Hamilton is also set to attend the debate.

Moderated by Greg MacDonald, president of the Montana Broadcasters Association, the debate will be produced in conjunction with the Montana Broadcasters Convention at Grouse Mountain Lodge. The live event is not open to the public, but is set to air on major networks at 9 a.m.