Senate Candidates Van Hollen, Edwards Collide In 1st Debate

BALTIMORE (WJZ)--The gloves come off in the Edwards/Van Hollen Democratic Senate Primary race, the candidates vying to replace retiring senator Barbara Mikulski faced off today.

Political reporter Pat Warren was in Washington, D.C. for the debate broadcast on WAMU radio.

Democrats Donna Edwards and Chris Van Hollen come out swinging.

"Mr. Van Hollen has shown a willingness to cave to the NRA," said Edwards during the debate.

"I 'm the only candidate here, the only candidate that has taken on the NRA," Van Hollen replies.

This WAMU debate may be just a first strike as the candidates get closer to primary day.

"I was really surprised by the personal attack and I  think it's because I 'm running ahead in the polls and maybe his team told him he has to attack me," said Edwards. "It really surprised me - he has kind of a nice-guy image."

Van Hollen says it's a matter of record.

"There've been a lot of claims made by the Edwards campaign about my record and I think it's important that Maryland voters know the truth on these issues. I've been leading the fights," he says.

In fact, Edwards and Van Hollen have spent years in congress fighting on the same side of many issues as members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation.

It is possible that many voters are just now paying attention the campaign, recent polls show more than 20% are undecided.