Published: October 28, 2008 10:21 pm      

35th candidates say debate will focus on issues

Both candidates for the 35th State Senatorial District seat say they will focus on issues today as they try to show voters their strengths and differences in a public debate.

Incumbent Democratic Sen. John Wozniak will face off with Republican challenger Joseph Veranese at 7 p.m. today in the Richland High School auditorium.

“I can’t wait,” Veranese said.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for voters to hear both sides of the issues and see where both candidates stand.”

“I think there will be clear differences,” Wozniak said, noting he expects to highlight his understanding of how to accomplish things in Harrisburg.

Wozniak listed health care, education and alternative energy programs as issues he expects to cover. But another issue will overshadow those.

“It’s all about jobs,” Wozniak said. “That’s the big one. That has been and will continue to be the major issue in this region.

Health care, Medicaid funding and nursing home mandates and funding are on Veranese’s mind, but he agrees employment is the main concern.

“The economy and unemployment – people are really going to start losing their jobs in this area,” Veranese said.