The two candidates in the race to fill the 25^th congressional district seat held by the late Lousie Slaughter faced each other Thursday night for the first of two debates.

Republican candidate Dr. Jim Maxwell and his Democratic opponent Joe Morelle had an hour to discuss hot button issues in a debate hosted by Voice of the Voter.

The two candidates debated several controversial issues, including climate change, education, healthcare and gun control.

Morelle, who has been a public servant for 30 years, is currently serving as the state Assembly majority leader. His opponent Maxwell is running his first campaign for public office.

"Well, you got a choice and it's a stark contrast," Maxwell said. "I'm brand new at this, I've been a neurosurgeon for 40 years here and yet I have a deep appreciation for politics and a deep faith that we can do better. I bring to this job no baggage, I don't owe anybody anything, I have a good strong spine and I'm willing to stand up to anybody including President Trump."

Morelle also agreeing to be more bipartisan in order to pass legislation but criticized Maxwell's lack of political experience.

"It's one thing to talk in platitudes, 'I want a cleaner environment,' 'I want less gun violence,' but then not to have any ideas whatsoever to talk about," said Morelle. "I talked about the things I care about. My record of accomplishment in this community is pretty extensive, I think people know that, and because of that I know specifically what I want to do in Washington on Day One."