The two candidates of US House of Representatives District 1 answered questions at a recent League of Women Voters Forum. Republican Incumbent Doug LaMalfa and Challenger Democrat Heidi Hall took turns presenting their opening positions, answering questions, and presenting closing statements to an overflow crowd at the Rood Center. In most cases the two candidates were on very opposite sides of an issue. However, at times they were closer to the middle. The first question mediator Polly Bacich asked was about reducing cost of student loan debts. Both candidates agree it is an issue.

Click here to listen to Congressman LaMalfa

Congressman LaMalfa went on to state another problem is the overall cost of a college education stating costs needed to be focused on what will help students graduate with good degrees rather that continue in school and going farther into debt.

Heidi Hall says she is a success story because of how federal student loan programs were set up 30 years ago., but today’s rates are out of line with reality.

Click here to listen to Heidi Hall

A question where they were farther apart is the status of the Farm Bill. Hall claiming the program benefits millionaire farmers and punishes children.

Click here to listen to Heidi Hall

LaMalfa countered with approving reduction of direct payments to farmers and focusing on food stamp fraud.

Click here to listen to Congressman LaMalfa

The candidates answered over 20 questions throughout the spirited forum.