ANNAPOLIS — Gov. Wes Moore is puffing out his chest because Dan Cox agreed to debate him Oct. 6 on Maryland Public Television.

Adorable.

There are four candidates running for governor, but apparently Moore’s definition of “facing the voters” comes with a two-person occupancy limit.

Andy Ellis has called for a four-way debate. Cox wants more debates. Cathy White is still standing over there wondering whether she needs to wear a bell.

Moore says he’s eager to defend his “record of progress.”

Great. Then defend it against everybody.

Instead, the strategy appears to be:

Pick one opponent. Ignore the rest. Announce bravery.

That’s not courage. That’s booking a controlled playdate and calling it the Thunderdome.

The Canton Cat obtained Moore’s completely fictional debate checklist:

☑ Friendly television studio
☑ One opponent
☑ Prepared talking points
☑ Victory graphic ready
☐ All candidates invited
☐ Uncontrolled questions
☐ Actual appetite for risk

Moore wants Marylanders to hear about his economy, crime record and schools.

Fine.

Put four podiums on the stage.

If the record is as magnificent as advertised, he should be begging for the extra microphones.

Otherwise this starts looking less like “Maryland’s Choice” and more like “Maryland’s Choice, Curated by Wes Moore.”

One debate with one challenger doesn’t make you fearless.

It makes you available Tuesday night.

Reporting From Behind the Dumpster. 🐈