Democratic former Gov. Mark Warner won't take part in a statewide televised Senate race debate this fall sponsored by the League of Women Vorters.

Olga Hernandez, president of the League's Virginia chapter, said Warner's Republican opponent, former Gov. Jim Gilmore, agreed to participate.

She said the event would have been broadcast free all over Virginia on radio and television.

Warner spokesman Kevin Hall said the campaign could not squeeze the debate into a busy schedule in the 68 days remaining until the November 4 election.

Hall said the campaign has committed to one other debate before a private Fairfax Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

Warner held a strong lead over Gilmore in summer polling and an overwhelming fundraising advantage.