It may be a first for Colorado and it’s certainly a first for the Western Slope.

Two well-known political figures are vying for the Republican gubernatorial nomination.

Even more compelling, candidate and State Senator Josh Penry used to work for former Congressman and also candidate Scott McInnis.

The two are good friends but will they put friendship aside as they challenge Bill Ritter for the Governor’s seat?

11 Today Anchor Bernie Lange takes a closer look at the race.

Is it clash of the titans or is it all in the family?

Two of the three republican gubernatorial candidates have a lot in common.

Both call Grand Junction home, both call each other friend, but when campaigning, the gloves come off. Or do they?

McInnis says, “Senator Penry has said he's eager for a debate...budget issues and other important topics any governor must deal with on a day to day basis.

Penry responds, “But the former Congressman has a different opinion when it comes to debating his former staffer.”

Some leaders of the Colorado GOP are agitated at the decision of McInnis not to debate Penry.

Both candidates agree there needs to be a new face in the Governors office, but Mesa County Republican Party Chairman Chuck Pabst understands why there are some differences between McInnis and Penry, and reluctance from the former congressman for debate.

An ugly primary battle in a Republican U.S. Senate race between Pete Coors and Bob Schaffer a few years ago may have helped Democrats win.

McInnis fears intra–party fighting that could provide ammunition for Democrats. Instead, McInnis is targeting the incumbent.

But Pabst says divisiveness isn't always bad for a campaign.

The differences in politics and policy are noticeable between Penry and McInnis, but most noticeable is experience.

Pabst says, “Former Congressman Scott McInnis is a highly visible and experienced face in Colorado politics vs. State Senator Josh Penry, a rising star in Colorado politics and perhaps beyond. You decide next August during the primary election.

Senator Penry and former Congressman McInnis also face a third opponent in the race for the Republican nomination for Governor.

State Senator Dan Maes, a businessman from Evergreen, has also thrown in his hat for the nomination.