Murray vs. Rossi Debates

There were two debates between Patty Murray and Dino Rossi this week. One was on Thursday Oct. 14, 2010, one was on Sunday Oct. 17, 2010.

Thursday Debate:

Patty Murray:

      In the first debate, Murray debated mostly about the economy and her years in the Senate. She claimed that she still had the best interests of Washingtonians and their families at heart, while Rossi challenged that her years in the Senate had changed her. He also made claims that she had gone back on her promises to decrease debt by voting for the Healthcare bill and the financial overhaul bill. Murray said that she supported the tax increase for the wealthiest Washingtonians. She said that she supports the healthcare bill, even though it is not perfect, and that she will try to improve it. She called out Dino Rossi on multiple occasions for not answering the questions. She also indicated her support for ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.

Dino Rossi:

     Rossi promoted himself as part of the change in leadership that will help America.  Rossi’s biggest debate issue referred to the fact that government is spending too much and growing too big.  He asserted that a change in course direction needs to happen within the next 24 months.  Rossi blasted the new federal health care law, projecting that it will siphon money from Medicare, raise corporation medical costs and cause jobs to be lost in Washington State.  He once again he mentioned his concern over the budget saying, “This actually could bankrupt America.” (Everett Herald)  Rossi expressed frustration over a timetable for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan saying it gives the terrorists incentive to hide and wait for Americans to leave.  Rossi deferred his answer on “Don’t ask, Don’t tell” until he reads more by Pentagon leaders.  He did speak positively on Murray’s work for veterans.

Sunday Debate:

Patty Murray:

     In the second debate, Murray once again mostly talked about the economy and taxes. The subject of earmarks appeared, with Murray claiming that the earmarks were essential to the operation of the state, and claiming that if they were cancelled, it could mean the loss of many jobs and a worse economy. The subject of Murray supposed “change” during here 18 years in the senate was once again brought up, with Murray insisting that she still had the good of the people in mind. Murray also said that she supports raising taxes for wealthy Americans (read: those who earn over $250,000 a year), which could raise around $1 trillion if passed. Murray also again accused Rossi of not answering the questions posed to him.

Dino Rossi:

     Rossi continued his focus on big government as being the cause for the current economy crisis, not being the solution, as Murray suggested.  He asserted small businesses need stable regulations and low taxes to be successful and start hiring again.  Rossi challenged Murray’s use of earmarks, citing business and lobbyist connections which have monetarily benefited.  Rossi believes earmarks should be done away with.  He continued drawing attention to Murray’s 18 year record of taxing, spending and government growth.  Rossi wants to build a stable platform to work on, instead of the huge deficit.  Once again Rossi addressed the “Don’t ask, Don’t tell” policy, and stated before commenting, he wants to review the military’s report.  When asked about immigrants, Rossi emphasized that securing the borders is the first step.  He used the analogy of a rowboat in the middle of a lake with a hole in the bottom – the hole has to be sealed before doing anything else.  He’d welcome a good idea for the children of illegal immigrants.  In his closing remarks, Rossi mentioned how this is the Land of Opportunity where people can chase the American Dream.  If he is elected, he asked the voters to not abandon him because he will need help.

Campaign Funding Update (Seattle Times)

Murray reported about $1.2 million in cash and raised about $3.3 million.

Murray has spent $14.7 million for her entire campaign.

Rossi has nearly $3.5 million in cash and has raised $4.7 million this quarter.

Rossi has spent about $2.6 million

All information comes from The Everett Herald and The Seattle Times as well as the debate itself.

-Talan Gunnell and Noel Hansen