Leading Democratic gubernatorial candidates to debate in Raleigh

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) – The two leading Democratic candidates for governor took aim at each other’s record in office during last night’s debate.

Despite being handcuffed by her promise to run a positive campaign, Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue chided Moore for his critique of budget votes Perdue made to raise tuition at University of North Carolina schools during the 1990s.

She called it another example of the politics of yesteryear.

Moore responded that while Perdue may consider it yesteryear, he called the campaign a long job interview, and that if one wants to be governor, they have to be prepared to have their record looked into.

Moore and Perdue agreed on many issues in their much-anticipated hourlong debate, which aired in the Triangle, Wilmington and Charlotte.

The two candidates had been on the same stage for television four previous times.

Another forum is set for Thursday. But Moore said the formats were too strict and he dared Perdue to meet for a more informal event.

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