Sarah Steelman debated Todd Akin and John Brunner on June 11th
By: Issa David
Former State Treasurer Sarah Steelman debated U.S. Congressman Todd Akin and businessman John Brunner in front of a sold out crowd of around 1,200 at Lindenwood on Monday, June 11. Starting at 7:00 p.m., the debate questions ranged from healthcare to education to taxes.
The first question was about tax cuts and if elected, would the candidates make the Bush tax cut temporary or permanent? Steelman said she would make them permanent so families can have dependability.
The next question, which became the topic of the night, was about healthcare. With almost all Republicans against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, a.k.a. Obamacare, Steelman wants citizens to able to move their healthcare plan from job to job. Also, Steelman wants Americans to have the ability to get a health plan from another state.
After four questions, the nominees took a four minute break to consult with their staff members, if they chose too.
The question after the break was about U.S. involvement with Syria. Steelman’s simple answer was no towards involvement, unless the situation is a threat to the United States.
Budget spending was the sixth question of the night. Steelman called out Akin due to his spending habits while in Congress. This received a big cheer from the audience.
As the night went on, questions about the United States Supreme Court arose. If the candidates had the opportunity to select a judge to the Supreme Court, what qualities should they have? Steelman gave five skills, but the biggest one was that the selected judge must at all-times, follow the law of the U.S Constitution.
During the closing statements, Steelman said if she is nominated, she is going to “stand up and fight” for the people.
After the debate ended, all three candidates attended a short ten minute media press conference. Steelman clarified some things she said, but did not change any of her positions.
The Senate primary elections for the Republican Senator nominee are August 7.
