March 17, 2014 5:24 PM

UPDATED: SEN. PATRICK TAKES A PASS ON CLOSED-DOOR DEBATE IN RIVER OAKS, DEWHURST WILL STILL SPEAK TO C CLUB

Patrick had asked for forum to be open to the press; Dewhurst will speak to them regardless of Patrick's decision

A spokesman for Lt Gov. David Dewhurst indicated the incumbent will appear before the business group, despite Patrik's decision to pull out. "Yes. Lt. Governor Dewhurst appreciates any opportunity to speak to groups of Texans and looks forward to debates and forums that are open to the press in the near future," spokesman Travis Considine said.