Second District Candidates Participate in First Debate

Three candidates running for Minnesota’s open Second District participated in the first general election debate on Twin Cities Public Television's politics show, Almanac. Republican Jason Lewis, Democrat Angie Craig, and Independence candidate Paula Overby were invited by the show to debate several issues, including energy, the economy, health care, and national security.

The candidates also discussed the negative campaign ads that have targeted both Craig and Lewis, including one in which Lewis is heard saying "If you don't want to own a slave, don't, but don't tell other people they can't."

However, KARE 11's "truth test" investigation on the quotes appear to backup Lewis' claim that his statements were taken out of context. On Almanc, Craig also said that her quotes have been taken out of context in recent attack ads, including one from the National Republican Congressional Committee in which Craig is heard saying she will "expand Obamacare."

The candidates are hoping to be the one to replace outgoing incumbent Rep. John Kline, who's held the seat since 2003. The Second District includes much of the southern metro, including Burnsville, Eagan, Apple Valley, Rosemount, Lakeville, and Northfield.

Watch Friday's entire debate below:

Image via Patch Media File