Democrats debate for Lt. Governor

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - In a race that doesn't normally generate a lot of excitement, the primary face-off for Lieutenant Governor between Democrats Elizabeth Roberts and Jeremy Kapstein is gaining traction.

Roberts, the incumbent and Kapstein, a senior adviser for the Boston Red Sox, squared off in a 30-minute debate at WPRI 12's studios.

The most pointed exchange came when Kapstein questioned Roberts’ management style.

"Why is your Chief of staff paid $161,000 dollars when we are in a deep, deep recession?" Kapstein asked.

"She was recognized by the Rhode Island Public Expenditures Counsel as an outstanding state employee," Roberts responded. "I have cut my budget. I turned $30,000 back to the State Treasury at the end of this fiscal year."

With the prospect of Massachusetts approving resort-style casino gambling, Kapstein said he was disappointed the legislature didn't let the people of Rhode Island vote on turning Twin River and Newport Grand into full-fledged casinos.

Roberts also wanted it to go to the voters, but said the state needs to move away from gambling revenue.

"We need to put this aside, these will never be the long-term good jobs for Rhode Island," Roberts said. "I would like us to be done with the issue of casino gambling."

Both candidates were asked a series of rapid fire questions. Here's the scorecard:

-Support gay marriage passed by the legislature but not put before the voters?

Roberts: Yes Kapstein: No
 

-Support decriminalizing the possession of a small amount of marijuana?

Roberts: Yes Kapstein: Yes
 

-Support legislation requiring companies in Rhode Island to use e-verify to check a workers immigration status?

Roberts: No Kapstein: Yes
 

-Support binding arbitration for teachers?

Roberts: Yes Kapstein: Yes
 

-What letter grade would you give Governor Don Carcieri for his performance as Chief Executive of the state?

Roberts: B- Kapstein: B-

Both candidates agreed the long-term solution to fixing the state's budget woes is economic development and that the $75 Million loan to Curt Schilling's video game company "38 Studios" was a bad idea. But Kapstein was eager to point out he denounced the deal first.

"It was one sided," Kapstein said. "Congratulations to Curt Schilling and his lawyers, they both totally out negotiated our representatives."

"To see such a huge proportion of that one fund go to one out-of-state business, I found very disappointing," Roberts said.

Kapstein highlighted his business experience, saying he is someone who could lure companies to Rhode Island. Roberts touted her support of small businesses and expertise in health care as a reason to remain in the seat.

Registered Democrats can head to the polls on September 14th to decide between the two.