The jabs started even before the debate began, with more than 150 supporters of both Linda McMahon and Richard Blumenthal surrounding the Garde Arts Center in New London on Tuesday night, loudly proclaiming why their candidate was better suited to be the next U.S. Senator from Connecticut.
Then it was the candidates' turn.
After Democrat Richard Blumenthal remarked, "People create jobs, small businesses create jobs," Republican Linda McMahon responded quickly, "I will say, Mr. Blumenthal, I'm happy you have a better notion on how to create jobs this week than you had last week."
The two candidates sounded a lot like their current campaign ads.
"I would not look at changing the minimum wage. My opponent was asked that question and she has said she would look at changing and cutting the minimum wage," Blumenthal said.
McMahon was asked to clarify her views and said, "Before the minimum wage is increased, I think we should review it."
When asked about recent rate hike requests in Connecticut by health insurance carriers Aetna and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, the two differed significantly.
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"I have opposed premium increases by insurance company that are completely unjustified," Blumenthal said.
But McMahon said mandates in the health care reform legislation have put a strain on insurance companies.
"If you are adding people to health care rolls and adding mandates for the health care companies, does it not stand to reason that the premiums are going to go up?" McMahon asked.
McMahon said Blumenthal's lack of understanding comes from his career as a lifelong politician. He criticized her business tactics when she was CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment.
They also attacked each other's credibility.
At one point, Richard Blumenthal said, "The people of Connecticut know me."
Minutes later, McMahon responded, "They know now that you have a difficult time telling the truth," referring to Blumenthal's admitted misstatement of his military service record.
The remark was met with a mix of boos and cheers from the partisan crowd.
"I think Linda McMahon is kind of cool, always hitting below the belt. I mean if you're going to fight -- fight fair, don't fight dirty," said Teresa Tarry of Groton, who came to support Blumenthal.
"Linda knew the facts and I felt she gave clear answers and knew what she was talking about," said Lynne Fredrickson, a McMahon supporter from Essex.
