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Bachmann, Graves hold first debate

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Oct 31, 2012 at 5:59 am

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (KNSI) Republican Congresswoman Michele Bachmann faced Democrat Jim Graves for the first time Tuesday in a debate that featured clashes over taxes, health care and a bridge that isn't even part of Minnesota's 6th District to the north and west of Minneapolis.

Graves went after Bachmann for her outsized national profile as a tea party favorite who ran briefly for president last year, saying voters "need somebody that can create jobs, not headlines."

Bachmann, who is seeking a fourth term, stressed the time she spends in the district listening to voters. She also painted Graves as a big spender who would drive the country further into debt.

Bachmann's fundraising prowess has made the race one of the nation's most expensive House contests, although the national parties and outside groups have spent little.

Bachmann raised about $13 million through mid-October, while Graves collected almost $2 million, including $520,000 from his own pocket.