Perdue and Moore Face Off

RALEIGH — Few differences emerged tonight in a debate between Beverly Perdue and Richard Moore, the two Democrats running for governor.

It was billed as the first “real” debate between the candidates because the format was free-wheeling and offered opportunity for back-and-forth. But the tone was mostly cordial, and Perdue and Moore generally stuck to their campaign platforms, which are very similar to each other. Both also said that their experience and records in state government make them best qualified to be governor.

A few small differences did emerge. Perdue defended the N.C. Lottery, while Moore harshly criticized it. Perdue said that she supports the death penalty but also supports the state’s current de facto moratorium, while Moore said you can either be for or against the death penalty, and he is for it. And the candidates criticized each other over their records on college tuition increases.

The Associated Press has a good run-down here.

Update Wednesday 11 a.m.: And here is the Journal‘s coverage of the debate.