Candidates for Minnesota Governor debate in Moorhead

Moorhead, Minn. (WDAY TV) - People in Minnesota had a chance to hear from their possible next Governor at a debate in Moorhead. The 7th Congressional District DFL party hosted the open meeting with nearly all the democratic candidates. The panel answered questions from voters and taxpayers.

They ranged from how to get more money for local governments to how the candidates plan on keeping small towns alive.

“We haven't had a Governor that's paid attention to the needs of the state, whether you're a student or a senior citizen, we think that the Governor's been focused on himself and his own career.”

Some Democratic voters say they're on the same page as the Governor candidates. They are calling out not only Pawlenty, but Governors before him.

People attending the event say they are excited with the group of candidates and the answers they heard today. It's too early to see a front runner, but attendee's say just getting someone different in office will be good for Minnesota.

“A Democrat has to win back the Governors mansion. I'm tired of seeing deficits, and I’m tired of waiting to hear good news about magical theories for cutting taxes for rich people will solve all our problems.”

Most people say an income tax on everyone is the fairest way to deal with the state's budget crisis. Another hot topic is higher education. Members from the DFL party say they are targeting young voters like college students to build off the turn out in the Presidential election.

“Higher education, the focus is what we need to do. I mean the last few years with Pawlenty, he just hasn't paid any attention. For MSUM we had to take cuts after cuts after cuts.”

Most people say they are undecided on who will be best for the office. The ones who did have a favorite prior to the meeting are now juggling at least 2 or 3 names. Nearly everyone we spoke with says whichever candidate the party endorses they will vote for.

“We're really lucky to have such a incredibly experienced articulate intelligent visionary slate of candidates for Governor.”

There are ten democratic candidates running for governor and eight republicans.