Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Republican Eric Hovde engaged in a heated debate over abortion rights and economic issues in their only debate before the Wisconsin Senate race. The debate was mostly civil, but both candidates made pointed accusations against each other. The discussion on reproductive rights became tense, with Baldwin defending a woman’s right to choose and Hovde expressing his pro-life stance with exceptions. Hovde falsely accused Baldwin of supporting late-term abortion, which she strongly refuted.
The race between Baldwin, seeking her third Senate term, and Hovde, a wealthy businessman, has tightened recently. Polls show a close race, leading to intense campaigning. Outside groups have poured money into the state in support of Hovde, who has also contributed millions to his own campaign. The candidates also clashed on immigration, foreign policy, and economic issues such as Social Security and drug prices. Baldwin criticized Hovde for wanting to cut federal spending to support the entitlement program.
The debate also saw arguments over the candidates’ Wisconsin credentials, with Hovde defending his roots in the state despite living in California in recent years. Baldwin emphasized her education and time in Washington, D.C. as a senator. The candidates sparred on various issues, with Baldwin accusing Hovde of lying and Hovde criticizing Baldwin as an out-of-touch career politician. The race has become a focal point for both parties due to Wisconsin’s status as a closely divided battleground.
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