Dayton, Johnson Go Head to Head in Duluth Debate

DULUTH - The Gubernatorial Debate was Minnesota's first in two decades to only feature two candidates. Democratic Governor Mark Dayton and Republican Challenger Jeff Johnson dueled over many isuues. It’s round three for Johnson vs. Dayton and the candidates battled over whose policies would make life easier for the middle class. Johnson stated, "I believe someone needs to stand up for the forgotten middle class in this state." “When I stepped in January of 2011, I made jobs the number one priority,” Dayton said. Education, upkeep in infrastructure and the Affordable Care Act were a few topics of controversy. Johnson claims Dayton focuses on spending with other projects while ignoring plans that would benefit Minnesota. “Our focus needs to be on the form of transportation upon which everyone relies, which is roads and bridges. It simply hasn't been," Johnson stated. Dayton acknowledged there is room to improve but it will take time and money. Dayton explained, “It's not going to come from the federal government; it's not going to come from the sky.  It's not going to come from these administrative fictions that you describe. We either raise revenues or not." The candidates also went head to head on the affordable care act. More specifically, MNsure. Dayton admits it was a rocky start but says the website is now working better. He said, “It's going to get better this next roll out. We still have the lowest rates, and the lowest health insurance rates of any state in the nation." Johnson criticizes Dayton for the decision on health insurance saying it hurt small businesses. “Yes, we went from 92 to 95% in coverage and that's a positive thing but 140,000 Minnesotans were forced off their health coverage,” Johnson stated. Education was also a hot topic. Dayton would like to see the per pupil formula increase. Essentially spending more on schools. “The money we have spent on additional education has been well spent, has been badly needed and I hope the fiscal situation will allow us to do more," Dayton said. Johnson believes the current state formula is too complex. “I don't believe that the only thing that matters is money. More money and good intentions isn't enough," Johnson stated.Indepencdence party candidate Hannah Nicollet wasn't invited to this Duluth debate after appearing in two other debates in the state.There's only three weeks left until the election.