Poliquin, Golden repeatedly accuse each other of lying during testy debate

Tensions flared Monday night between Rep. Bruce Poliquin and Democratic rival Jared Golden in the first televised debate for Maine’s 2nd Congressional District candidates.

Independent candidates Tiffany Bond and Will Hoar joined Golden and Poliquin for the debate broadcast from the studio of WCSH-TV and moderated by Pat Callaghan. In stark contrast to the largely collegial forums in Maine’s gubernatorial campaign, Poliquin and Golden sparred verbally from shortly after the outset of the one-hour event.

Poliquin, a two-term incumbent, wasted no time distinguishing himself from Golden, first by calling attention to Golden’s D grade from the National Rifle Association and F rating from the Gun Owners of Maine, compared to his A+ rating. The Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine also endorsed Poliquin earlier this year after the group criticized Golden for not returning its questionnaire.

“I am the only person on this stage who has a proven record of standing up for our 2nd Amendment Rights. Jared has a D rating with the NRA. He cannot be trusted with our 2nd Amendment rights,” Poliquin said, pointing his finger at Golden.

Read more: http://bangordailynews.com/2018/10/08/politics/poliquin-golden-repeatedly-accuse-each-other-of-lying-during-testy-debate/