September 3rd 2024.
During their only scheduled debate in the 4th Congressional District race, U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert and her Democratic opponent Trisha Calvarese engaged in a lively discussion on various topics. The debate, co-hosted by Colorado Politics/the Denver Gazette and the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation, focused on the economy and business issues.
Calvarese, a former speechwriter and labor activist, took aim at Boebert's congressional record, criticizing her for voting against a larger bill that would have allowed the federal government to negotiate for lower prescription drug prices. She also defended President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act and called for an end to the offshoring of American manufacturing. Boebert, who is seeking her third term in Congress, defended her record and highlighted her support for cutting taxes, bringing back prosperity, and securing the southern border.
The debate also touched on hot-button issues such as immigration and taxes. Boebert referred to American citizens born to undocumented immigrants as "anchor babies" and argued that they should not receive certain tax-credit assistance. Calvarese, on the other hand, emphasized the need for partnership and compromise, contrasting it with Boebert's approach of defunding and shutting down the government.
The candidates also discussed the growing national debt and their plans to address it. Boebert proposed going through spending individually, while Calvarese suggested taxing corporations that hide their money abroad and finding efficiencies in the federal government's spending. They also shared their views on veterans' care, with Calvarese accusing Boebert of not supporting veterans and Boebert defending her record and criticizing the VA's responsiveness.
The debate also included a lightning round of questions, where the candidates were asked about their stance on issues such as increasing the federal minimum wage and privatizing social security benefits. They both opposed privatizing social security benefits but had differing views on increasing the minimum wage.
After the debate, Calvarese called for at least two more debates, which would be televised. Boebert, however, did not commit to any additional debates, stating that she debates Democrats on a daily basis as part of her job.
The race for the 4th Congressional District seat is shaping up to be a highly contested one, with Boebert seeking her first term outside of the Western Slope-based 3rd Congressional District. Despite facing challenges from both Democrats and Republicans in her home district, Boebert is considered the odds-on favorite to win. However, Calvarese is determined to give her a tough fight and called the debate the beginning of a job interview for all constituents.
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