Twain museum invites Obama, McCain to debate

HANNIBAL — It may be a longshot, but the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum in Hannibal is asking the presidential contenders to come to Hannibal for a debate  — with Stephen Colbert as the moderator.

The museum says it has invited Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain to a town hall-style debate. No date has been announced, but Colbert's staff provided dates when he is available if the candidates should accept.

Museum board member Cindy Lovell says the debate is in keeping with the spirit of Twain, who spent his childhood in Hannibal and who often commented on politics.

The museum says that since Twain often used humor in his political commentary, Colbert would be the perfect fit for moderator.