COLUMBUS — Representatives from the campaigns of U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, and his opponent, former Gov. Ted Strickland, have released details on the schedule for debates in the Senate race.

Debates will take place on Oct. 14 in Youngstown, sponsored by WFMJ and The Vindicator, Oct. 17 in Columbus, sponsored by 10 TV and the Columbus Dispatch, and Oct. 20 in Cleveland, sponsored by the Cleveland City Club and Scripps ABC.

“These debates will provide Ohioans the opportunity to learn and evaluate where both candidates stand on the critical issues facing our state and our country,” the campaigns said in a joint news release. “We hope that these debates will help inform voters about the choice they are facing in November in the Senate race, to encourage individuals to participate in our democracy, and will offer an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates. Former Gov. Strickland and Sen.Portman are both looking forward to participating in these debates and the opportunity to share their message with Ohioans.”

The format will consist of one-hour debates with 90-second answers. Rebuttals will be limited to 90 seconds and 30 second. Candidates will give two-minute opening and closing statements. Moderators have yet to be announced.