Republican Senator Josh Hawley and Democrat Lucas Kunce have agreed to participate in a televised debate on October 31, just days before the November 5 election for the U.S. Senate seat in Missouri. Hawley's acceptance comes after Kunce had previously challenged him to five debates, and it follows a contentious exchange at the Missouri State Fair in August. Recent polls show Hawley leading Kunce by a margin of 51% to 40%, indicating a competitive race. The debate will be broadcast on Nexstar stations across Missouri, including KTVI/KPLR in St. Louis and WDAF in Kansas City. The candidates have been engaged in a war of words on social media regarding debate participation, with Kunce accusing Hawley of avoiding other debate opportunities. This debate could be their only formal meeting before voters head to the polls.