Democratic Gubernatorial Candidates Score Points, Attack Walker In Debate

The Democratic candidates for governor attacked Republican Gov. Scott Walker in their first broadcast debate on Thursday, while also trying to distinguish themselves from the crowded field of eight and tout their own policies.

The 90-minute debate comes as the eight candidates enter the final month of campaigning before the August primary, with the winner of the primary facing Walker in November. The debate was broadcast by WTMJ-TV and WUWM Radio in Milwaukee.

The candidates in the debate were state Superintendent Tony Evers; state Sen. Kathleen Vinehout; Madison Mayor Paul Soglin; state firefighters President Mahlon Mitchell; former state Rep. Kelda Roys; former state party chairman Matt Flynn; political activist Mike McCabe; and corporate attorney Josh Pade.

Evers argued Thursday the fact that he’s the only candidate to have won statewide election makes him in the best position to beat Walker. But others, including Soglin and Vinehout, argued their experience in office make them the best choice.

Flynn said he would legalize marijuana if elected. Kelda Roys said she would pardon anyone charged with performing an abortion, should Roe v. Wade be overturned and a state ban enacted. Mitchell said his leadership skills would bring the state together.

All eight contenders said they opposed the $10 billion Foxconn Technology Group project. Evers and Pade were the only candidates who don’t believe the next governor could end the project. Evers instead said the deal should be renegotiated to make it better for taxpayers.

The candidates are also targeting Walker.

Mitchell said Walker “doesn’t give a crap about the people of the state of Wisconsin.” He said Walker acts differently as a candidate than he does as a governor.

The primary is Aug. 14.