(Spencer)– The opening day of the Clay County Fair Saturday featured a debate between the two candidates running in the new fourth Congressional District. Hundreds jammed the ballroom at the Clay County Regional Events Center to witness the event between Republican Congressman Steve King and challenger Christie Vilsack.
Healthcare reform was one of many issues the two addressed. While Vilsack defends President Obama’s Affordable Care Act, she admitted portions of it do come with a high price tag. She added she would like to see a system that’s more results-based…(click here for comment from Vilsack.)
King again called for the abolishment of Obama’s plan and instead come up with one that would allow people to cross statelines to purchase health insurance which he says would help keep premiums competitive…(click here for comment from King.)
The gloves especially came off when the issue of the farm bill came up and the fact Congress has yet to pass one. Vilsack defended the food stamp, or “SNAP” provision, saying it’s something farmers rely on heavily…(click here for comment from Vilsack.)
King defended his proposal to cut some $16 billion from the food stamp provision, saying a lot of it’s being used for purposes other than what it’s intended…(click here for comment from King.)
The gridlock in congress also had the two sparring. Vilsack repeatedly asked King what he’s accomplished during his years in Congress. King put the blame for the gridlock with the leadership party, and the fact he says it abolished an array of rules that had been designed to put some order into what takes place.
Education, jobs and the economy were other topics the two addressed.
