RICHMOND, VA (WTVR) - Less than 29 days before election day, the candidates to be the next United States Senator from Virginia squared off in a debate live on CBS 6.
Republican Candidate George Allen and Democrat Tim Kaine faced questions by CBS 6 political analyst Dr. Bob Holsworth as well as panelists including Stephanie Rochon. CBS 6 anchor Bill Fitzgerald served as the debate's host.
"My opponent said it was his job to knock democrats down their whiney throats," Tim Kaine told the audience.
"If Tim would of given his governorship full attention he might have avoided some mistakes," Allen rebutted.
Kaine is holding onto a slim lead in the polls and also leads in campaign donations thus far according to the Federal Election Commission.
Allen made it a point during the evening to criticize Kaine on choosing to become chairman of the Democratic National Committee during his time as governor.
"You should of said to the president, I have a job as governor of Virginia, the highest honor in Virginia," Allen said.
Kaine rebutted saying his last year in office was his most effective.
"I think I had my best year," Kaine said.
Kaine also criticized Allen for attacking him while he accepted a position in party leadership during his time in the senate.
In regards to the economy, Allen's number one priority was clear.
"First of all we need to repeal and replace Obamacare," Allen said at least four times during the hour debate.
Kaine, on the other hand, stressed the need for a compromise on taxes.
"I do believe we should let the Bush tax cuts expire as planned for those who make more than 500,000 dollars a year," Kaine said.
Other issues included changes to Social Security with Gov. Allen saying how he would support changes in eligibility requirements for people under fifty.
Kaine said he would like to see an end to hidden campaign contributions.
Social media was very active during the debate. To look at the tweets from The Peoples Debate, click here: http://wtvr.com/2012/10/08/social-media-look-at-the-peoples-debate/
