The Club 20 candidates’ debate day in Grand Junction was headlined by the contest for Congressional District 3 between Democrat Adam Frisch and Republican Jeff Hurd. The district, covering much of the Western Slope and southern Colorado, includes 27 counties and about 700,000 residents. The debate showcased differences on issues such as rural neglect, energy, water rights, economic relief, and workforce development.
Frisch emphasized his family history, commitment to rural Colorado, and rejection of corporate money, while Hurd highlighted his Western Slope roots and support for energy families and water rights. The candidates sparred over issues like nuclear energy, water export projects, and strategies for attracting talent to the district. They also clashed over campaign funding, avoiding public debates, and supporters’ positions.
The debate culminated in fiery exchanges during the last 20 minutes, with Frisch questioning Hurd’s legal clients and ties to corporate money, and Hurd accusing Frisch of attacking his supporters and avoiding tough debates. Frisch criticized Hurd for not engaging in public events, while Hurd labeled Frisch as a liberal Democrat masquerading as a moderate.
Both candidates expressed confidence in their performances, with Frisch calling for more forums to engage voters and Hurd emphasizing the need to address fundamental weaknesses in his opponent. They are set to debate again on Sept. 30, sponsored by the Pueblo Chamber of Commerce and Colorado Politics. The race for CD3 promises to be contentious, with issues of trust, transparency, and effectiveness at the forefront.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
