Congressional candidates step up the criticism
WSTM TV 3 (NBC)
Matt Mulcahy
October 23rd, 2008
http://www.wstm.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=211560
Debate co-sponsored by WSTM
LIVERPOOL -- There are just twelve days left until Election Day and the candidates in the race for the 25th Congressional District are criticizing each other for their handling of economic issues. Last night NBC3 co-sponsored a debate with the three candidates who want to replace retiring Congressman Jim Walsh.
During the debate at the studios of WCNY, Republican Dale Sweetland said the difficult economic times the nation is experiencing will force the government to cut back. Sweetland criticized Democrat Dan Maffei saying, "Mr. Maffei has said we can do everything for everyone. I can tell you this is a time when we can't have candidates out there telling everyone we can do everything because it may not be possible. It's typical of a politician to be surprised when it doesn't happen."
The Democrat who has raised six times more money than his Republican opponent responded to Sweetland's criticism saying, "If you don't have a lot of your own ideas then you criticize others. I have not seen any economic plans. I have proposed many. Will they all work? I'm not sure, but at least we can try something."
During the debate the economy, the war in Iraq and education were among the issues discussed. Also, moderator Matt Mulcahy pointed out to the candidates that each of them lost their last race and asked how the anguish of their defeat taught them lessons for this run. Green populist candidate Howie Hawkins responded saying "there's losing the office, but winning the agenda. At least my campaigns have set markers and expanded the discussion."
By Election Night one of the three will break his losing streak.
designed by union labor