Race For State's New District 22 Seat Will Be Close
FT. LAUDERDALE (CBS4) – One of the most watched political races in the country will likely have a close outcome.
The race is for Florida's newly drawn U.S. Congressional District 22 which covers portions of Broward and Palm Beach counties and pits Democrat Lois Frankel against Republican Adam Hasner. The two have similar political backgrounds but differ on social and economic issues.
"There's a stark contrast between Lois and I on policy and personality," said Hasner.
"I don't have to run away from Lois Frankel, let's put it that way," declared Frankel.
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The 42-year old Hasner, who is a lawyer, was a Florida state house representative for 8 years and served as majority leader.
Frankel, 64, also served as a Florida state house representative for 14 years and was mayor of West Palm Beach for eight years.
"Being mayor is a non-partisan job. It's what people are looking for, to roll up their sleeves and get things done," said Frankel.
Frankel and Hasner have debated the hot button issue of Medicare.
Frankel wants to preserve the current system but work on cutting fraud and waste to make make sure it operates efficiently.
"I support a plan to save and protect Medicare for today's seniors and strengthen it for young people and other generations," said Hasner.
Frankel maintains that solving problems in a major city has made her very prepared to handle the issues facing voters in the 22nd Congressional district.
"I believe my politics reflect the people in this district, the middle class, public school education and women to make their own decisions about their bodies," said Frankel. "I think we should reduce our deficit in a balanced way, get people back to work and invest in our infrastructure, research and development, education and tax breaks for companies that will stay her."
Hasner said if elected he plans to focus on fiscal responsibility and solving the national debt.
"We can find the right balance to protect consumers and protect our environment, but do it in a way that it doesn't stifle innovation," said Hasner.
Hasner said he will also focus on creating jobs in the district.
"We need to get our South Florida economy moving again. It has to do with trade and tourism, renewable energy and health care," said Hasner. "Small business owners need certainty. They need to know what the tax code is going to be and look at job killing regulation."
Hasner said whoever wins the race must be willing and able to compromise if the today's problems are to be solved.
"We have some big problems: the deficit and debt; and people are looking for candidates with solutions. I think I have a strong record in the legislature to work across party lines," said Hasner.
