A day after he turned down NY1's offer of a statewide debate with rival Carl Paladino, Republican candidate for governor Rick Lazio was unable to dodge his opponent's supporters. NY1's Michael Scotto filed the following report.

GOP gubernatorial candidate Rick Lazio was on the stump in Orange County Tuesday, picking up endorsements and blasting Andrew Cuomo and Albany Democrats. However, it was a rival within his own party that was dogging his campaign.

Supporters of Carl Paladino heckled Lazio throughout his appearance, accusing him of being afraid to debate his fellow Republican.

Several weeks ago, both candidates were invited to face off in a debate in Syracuse scheduled for next Monday. While Paladino accepted the offer, Lazio finally decided to say no on Tuesday, saying through a spokesman that he has no time between now and the September 14 primary.

Lazio maintains the debate is a non-issue, but Paladino says the denial is proof Lazio is scared of competition.

"It's not that hard to distinguish the two of us, if you hear us side by side," Paladino said. "And I think just think it would be a great opportunity for myself obviously to let people vet the two of us side by side. And that's where I think his fear is, and I don't think he feels capable of doing that."

Meanwhile, Lazio says his sights are set on November and the Democratic nominee.

"Republicans have had a vetting process, they have spoken, the conservatives have as well. We need to get on to the main event. At that point we're going to have a debate with Andrew Cuomo, if he'll have a debate," Lazio said.

Meantime, it seems at least some members of Lazio's party feels he is looking too far ahead.

With the primary rapidly approaching, recent polls show that while Paladino still trails Lazio, he is gaining support.