Barnes, Deal Differ on Casinos in Ga.

Georgia Republican gubernatorial candidate Nathan Deal says he's open to considering casino gambling in Georgia, while Democrat Roy Barnes says he'd be reluctant because it might compete with the state lottery.

The candidates both weighed in on legalized gambling Wednesday at a tourism forum in Savannah. While at first expected to share the stage, the rivals answered questions separately with the spotlight to themselves.

Asked if Georgia should allow casinos, Deal said he would keep an open mind. He noted some states such as Mississippi have had success with casinos.

Barnes said he doesn't want to see Georgia become a "casino state." He said he's hesitant to support any gambling that might siphon money away from the lottery, which funds the state's HOPE scholarships.

Also, the two won't be squaring off face-to-face in Savannah after all.

     The two were expected to share a stage at a tourism forum Wednesday, the first meeting between the two since they won their parties' nominations.

      Instead, they'll appear one after the other.

      Moderator Sonny Dixon, an anchor with WTOC TV, said the format was changed because the Deal campaign "didn't think it was time for a face-to-face confrontation."

      Deal spokesman Brian Robinson said that - fresh off the Aug. 10 runoff - the campaign never agreed to a debate.

      He said Deal is prepared to debate Democrat Barnes "from Hiawassee to Hahira, just not today."

      Barnes campaign manager Chris Carpenter said they were fully prepared to go up against Deal.