Sanders and GOP challenger Zupan square off in only one-on-one debate

In his first debate this election cycle, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., faced off Monday against Lawrence Zupan, a Republican real estate agent making a long shot bid to unseat him.

The debate, hosted by Vermont Public Radio and Vermont PBS, was characterized by fiery exchanges between the two candidates. While Zupan accused Sanders of “promoting socialism over American principles” the senator tried to draw comparisons between Zupan and national Republicans, including President Donald Trump.

Zupan, a Manchester-based businessman who has never held public office, is running on a platform focused on cutting taxes and promoting a business friendly environment by removing regulations. Both Zupan and Sanders were born and raised in New York City.

During the debate, hosted by VPR’s Jane Lindholm, Zupan compared Sanders’ progressive policy agenda to authoritarian regimes such as those in Venezuela and North Korea.

Read more: https://vtdigger.org/2018/10/29/sanders-gop-challenger-zupan-square-off-one-one-debate/