Langevin, Lawless face off over Iraq war, abortion rights

The 30-minute debate hosted by the League of Women Voters gives voters a look at the Democratic primary opponents for the 2nd Congressional District. 01:00 AM EDT on Thursday, August 31, 2006 BY EDWARD FITZPATRICK Journal Staff Writer PROVIDENCE -- U.S. Rep. James R. Langevin and Democratic challenger Jennifer Lawless squared off in their first debate last night, with Lawless criticizing the incumbent on such issues as abortion and the Iraq war. Langevin defended his record over the past six years, saying he voted against the Iraq war and has taken the lead on such issues as stem-cell research and health care. The candidates, who will face each other in the Sept. 12 Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District, took part in a half-hour debate that was sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Rhode Island and broadcast live on Rhode Island PBS (WSBE-TV, Channel 36).

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