Iowa GOP Governor Candidates Clash in Final Debate

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: May 20, 2010 at 1:47 PM CDT

Story Updated: May 20, 2010 at 1:47 PM CDT

JOHNSTON (AP) - The three candidates seeking the Republican nomination for governor tangled over taxes and spending in their final debate.

Businessman Bob Vander Plaats tried to put Terry Branstad, who served as governor for 16 years, on the defensive for much of Thursday's debate. Vander Plaats noted Branstad approved increases in the sales and gasoline taxes.

Branstad responded that he actually reduced overall taxes.

After one heated exchange the third candidate, state Rep. Rod Roberts, challenged his opponents to refrain from arguing.

In one area of agreement, all candidates supported a requirement that a woman see a sonogram image of her fetus before getting an abortion.

The winner of the June 8 primary will face Democratic Gov. Chet Culver.

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