Evans and Rutinel Spar Over Taxes, Immigration and Medicaid in High-Stakes Debate

By Esteban L. Hernandez | Axios Denver

Republican Gabe Evans and Democrat Manny Rutinel traded sharp attacks Wednesday in a heated debate in Colorado’s closely watched 8th Congressional District seat.

Why it matters: In their only scheduled debate, the candidates spent more time sparring than spelling out how they’d address voters’ concerns — even as the race could determine the balance of power in Congress.

State of play: The on-stage standoff underscores the intensity of the race for one of Colorado’s most competitive congressional seats.

• Both candidates shared personal stories of overcoming hardship, drawing on their family backgrounds to connect with voters in the suburban Denver district.

Case in point: When asked what Congress could do to lower everyday costs for families, both candidates spent most of their allotted time criticizing their opponents’ past policies instead of outlining specific solutions.

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