Immigration, Abortion and Spending Limit Draw Sparks at Debate

Debate was held on the grounds of Willamette University Photo By: Matt King

(SALEM – AP) - The six gubernatorial candidates who held this campaign's first cross-party debate set themselves apart on issues including illegal immigration, abortion, and gay rights.

But on they agreed that they wished Governor Kulongoski, who seeks re-election, had showed up.

His campaign team says he didn't because it would only serve for people to gang up on the incumbent, and skipped other debates because of scheduling conflicts.

The event at Willamette University was sponsored by the Associated Press Newspaper Executives organization.

Republican contender Ron Saxton set himself apart, saying he thinks Oregon should not pay for the education of children whose parents are here illegally.

Among Republicans, only state Senator Jason Atkinson said he would sign a near-total ban on abortion.

A question about gay marriage drew a passisonate response from former State Treasurer Jim Hill, a Democrat.

Said Hill: "Gays and lesbians are Americans, period. Rights are not based on the approval of other people."