LOVELAND — All four candidates for the northern Colorado’s 4th Congressional District squared off in a debate tonight that included zingers between the two major party candidates but offered nothing new on platforms or stances on major issues.
Democratic incumbent Rep. Betsy Markey defended her vote on the health care bill but declared she was an independent voice that truly represents the district.
GOP opponent Cory Gardner preached small but responsive government and attacked Markey’s voting record in Congress. The exchanges between the two provided the emotional sparks for the crowd of 200 gathered at the Fountains of Loveland. Most backed Markey or Gardner and weren’t shy about loudly supporing either one.
“I’m proud of my record in Congress,” said Markey, pointing to her ultimate vote on the health care bill.
“I wouldn’t be running for Congress if I were proud of your record,” responded Gardner.
Markey also questioned one of Gardner’s ads which she claimed was inaccurate because it indicated she voted for the federal government’s 2010 budget. She did not.
“My question to Cory Gardner: Was this deliberate? So can we trust you?”
That exchange prompted independent candidate Ken “Wasko” Waszkiewicz to say: “I think we want both of you to leave your egos at the door.”
Also present was American Constitution Party candidate Doug Aden, who questioned whether massive government bailouts for private business was constitutional. Aden, Markey and Gardner all found common ground on a suggestion from Waszkiewicz that marijuana consumption and prostitution might be legalized to raise revenue. All opposed the idea.
The debate – the only one currently scheduled for all four candidates – was sponsored by NoCo5, a Cheyenne-based TV station that covers northern Colorado.
