BY WESLEY P. HESTER

The Virginia Bar Association has announced the first general election debate in the state’s U.S. Senate race, to be held Saturday, July 21 at the The Homestead in Hot Springs.

At the event, part of the Virginia Bar Association’s summer meeting, Former Gov. Timothy M. Kaine will likely square off with the winner of the June 12 GOP primary in the race to fill the seat being vacated by Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va.

Former Gov. George Allen, Chesterfield County tea party leader Jamie Radtke, Chesapeake minister E.W. Jackson and state Del. Robert G. Marshall, R-Prince William, are all battling for the Republican nomination.

The VBA debate is a long-standing political tradition in statewide races and is likely to be one of at least three debates ahead of the general election.

Kaine spokeswoman Brandi Hoffine said the campaign has not yet accepted any debate invitations, but added: “We look forward to debating the Republican nominee once that person is selected.”