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Kaine and Allen discuss issues at University of Richmond

Posted at 12:16 AM, Oct 08, 2012
and last updated 2012-10-08 00:16:37-04

RICHMOND, VA (WTVR) -- Thirty days before election day and on the eve of a major debate, Virginia Senate Candidates George Allen and Tim Kaine discussed issues of the campaign on the campus of the University of Richmond.

While the candidates did not share the stage at the same time, they were asked the same questions by University President Ed Ayers.

"This will be different than my good friend Tim Kaine who'll be up here later," Republican candidate George Allen, who took the stage first, told the crowd.

"First thing I think we need to do is repeal and replace Obamacare, it will add a trillion dollars in spending," Allen said.

Democratic Candidate Tim Kaine stood by his support of the Affordable Care Act.

"I was  a supporter and remain a supporter of the Affordable Care Act. I thought it was a statement that we were going to put some things in the rearview mirror," Kaine said. 

On energy both expressed different priorities.

"I'm going to introduce a bill that will allow us in Virginia to produce oil and natural gas that we have off our coasts," Allen said. 

"I think humans effect climate change.  I think carbon is a problem and I think we need to do something," Kaine said.

Both candidates agreed they would change the gridlock in Washington.

"The gridlock is holding our country back," Kaine said.

Kaine proposed the idea of changing the filibuster to hold Senators accountable while Allen said he would withhold pay of men and women in Congress if a budget is not passed.

Kaine and Allen will square off in a debate Monday, Oct. 8, night on CBS 6 at 8 p.m. The debate will also air on WTVR.com. Make sure to follow Joe St. George on Twitter for live updates at the debate.