Oregon Public Broadcasting

The two leading candidates for Oregon governor are set to make their first joint appearance Saturday.

Democrat John Kitzhaber and Republican Chris Dudley are scheduled to speak at the League of Oregon Cities conference in Eugene.

The Kitzhaber and Dudley campaigns publicly sparred this summer over when to schedule debates and how many to hold.

Meanwhile, Kitzhaber spoke to the Eugene City Club Friday. He said he wished his chief opponent had been there too.

John Kitzhaber: “This is supposed to be a candidates forum. This is after all, an election year, and all elections involve a choice. And quite frankly I’m disappointed to be here by myself. My opponent Chris Dudley was invited to participate but has chosen not to do so.”

For the League of Oregon Cities forum Saturday, the candidates were provided questions in advance.

The only scheduled televised debate -- with the candidates facing questions from journalists -- will be held next Thursday in Portland.