Discussion of controversial public issues (CPI) emphasizes the importance of creating an open exchange of views regarding burning political issues. However, studies point to the phenomenon of avoiding such discussions and teacher self-censorship. This study wished to expand this debate by exploring the context of civics teacher education. Based mainly on interviews with 10 Israeli civics teacher-educators, the main finding points to how when teaching core civics teacher education competencies, CPI were avoided, rather than dealt with. Based on these findings, the role of discussion as an educational goal, and not just a pedagogical method, will be argued.