They'll need a long head table tonight in St. Cloud, when seven DFL candidates for governor gather for a debate at the public library.

Expected at the 7 p.m. event are: Mark Dayton, Susan Gaertner, Steve Kelley, John Marty, Tom Rukavina, R.T. Rybak and Paul Thissen, says the St. Cloud Times.

Not expected because of scheduling conflicts are four other likely candidates, Tom Bakk, Chris Coleman, Matt Entenza and Margaret Anderson Kelliher.

The debate starts with short opening statements, then questions from the audience. Candidates get one minute to answer questions and two minutes to make closing statements.

Meanwhile, all nine Republican candidates are expected Monday night at a debate in Prior Lake sponsored by Scott County Republicans.

It's at 7 p.m. at Bethesda Church on Hwy 13 in Prior Lake. The event is a fundraiser for the local GOP group, so there is an admission charge: $20 ($5 for students with ID).