Two leading Democrats in the Texas Governor's Race debate the issues
AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Two top Democratic candidates in the Texas Governor's race squared off and debated the issues. Farouk Shami and Bill White, considered the two leading candidates from the Democratic party faced off. There were some measurable differences between the candidates on some key issues.
Abortion: The two seemed to agree on abortion; although Shami spoke about supporting abortion until 90 days into the pregnancy.
Healthcare: Shami is behind a new federal healthcare bill; while White stated it's not the Governor's choice, and he would let the issue settle and make a decision.
Death Penalty: White does not support a moratorium on the death penalty; while Shami is in favor of suspending capital punishment.
Gas Tax: Shami supports a gas tax to help fund highway projects; while White says no, "Not where I would start"
E-Verify: White favors the program and called it "a useful tool"
Voter I.D. Bill: Both candidates seemed against the idea
Bill White's closing comments focused on challenging voters to compare Monday's debate to the Republican debate. White pointed out bickering and stated they were "shouting over each other", and mentioned how he and Shami treated each other with respect.
Shami spoke of two very bold goals. He said in 10 years there would be no need for energy bills. He also made a guarantee that all Texans would have a job, and that he would create 100-thousand jobs in two years or he would pay 10-million dollars to the state.
Both candidates ended the debate focusing on jobs.
"We need to prepare the citizens of our state to compete for the jobs in the new economy of the future, the global economy, I know how to do that, that will be my highest priority," said Bill White.
"I am the man who can secure jobs, I am the man who can create jobs, and my history speaks for itself, I am a proud Texan, my heart, my mind, my soul is all Texan," said Farouk Shami.
Governor Rick Perry released a statement after the debate. "Both liberal Democrats in tonight's debate share two things with Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison: they are all pro-choice and they are all big government advocates," Governor Rick Perry.
For more information on the debate and other information on the two campaigns; check out the links provided below.
