Photos: Local Candidates Debate at Medford FD

Several local candidates took part in a debate hosted by the Medford Taxpayer and Civic Association held Wednesday at Medford Fire Department.

While both sides of each included race were invited, those attending were the state's third assembly district candidates; incumbent Assemblyman Dean Murray (R) and challenger Edward Hennessey (D), third senatorial candidate incumbent Sen. Lee Zeldin (R) and first congressional district candidates; incumbent Congressman Tim Bishop (D) and challenger Randy Altschuler (R) and Brookhaven Town Supervisor candidates; Edward Romaine (R) and Brian Beedenbender (D). Zeldin's opponent, challenger Frank Genco (D) did not make the debate.

Due to candidates not arriving at the same time in all but the congressional race, most candidates spoke at separate times from their opponents. This resulted in Murray speaking alone for significantly more of his Assembly debate, with Hennessy starting during the final two questions after his arrival. Zeldin, Romaine and Beedenbender all spoke without their opponent on the same stage.

Check back to Patch for more coverage from Wednesday's debate.