Walz, GOP rivals to debate at Farmfest

Rep. Tim Walz
Rep. Tim Walz speaks to delegates at the DFL state convention in Rochester Saturday, June 2, 2012.
Alex Kolyer for MPR

REDWOOD FALLS, Minn. (AP) -- Democratic Rep. Tim Walz and the two Republicans competing to challenge him appear before an audience of farmers on Tuesday.

Republicans Mike Parry and Allen Quist are participating in a forum on agricultural and rural issues along with Walz on the opening day of Farmfest near Redwood Falls.

Also taking part are Rep. Collin Peterson and Republican challenger Lee Byberg from the 7th District and Democratic challenger Mike Obermueller from the 2nd District.

Parry and Quist have the most to win or lose from the appearance, which happens just a week before their Aug. 14 primary in the 1st District. The primary winner will face Walz in November.